AFL Nines to bring hundreds of competitors to Byron Bay carnival

THE Byron AFL Nines carnival is gearing up to host hundreds of competitors at the Cavanbah Centre, with registrations now open for the popular two-day event on October 30 and 31.

Established by AFL Queensland in 2014, the event has become a fixture on the sporting calendar while introducing local juniors and newcomers to the modified version of Australian rules football.

AFL Nines is a fast-paced, non-contact format that features shorter matches and a festival-like atmosphere, making it popular with players of all ages and abilities.

There is $3,000 prizes for winning teams across multiple divisions.

The Byron carnival has attracted several former AFL stars over the years, including Jude Bolton, Peter ‘Spida’ Everitt and Steve Johnson.

Contested under the AFL Play banner as a national event, the tournament reflects the growing popularity of AFL Nines across Australia.

Event coordinator Brad Howard said the carnival had earned a reputation as one of the most enjoyable events on the calendar.

“The nine-a-side game provides a fast, free-flowing game to players seeking a social, non-contact alternative that is fun for all ages, genders and skill-levels, and is played on a smaller field,” he said.

“The whole vibe of the weekend is always so much fun.

“Whether you’re an experienced player or just looking for a fun weekend with mates, there’s divisions to suit all abilities.”

Teams of between nine and 15 players can enter the men’s open, mixed open, men’s masters 35+ and men’s masters 45+ divisions.

Organisers expect most teams to come from northern New South Wales and south-east Queensland, although Victorian school teams have also travelled to Byron Bay to compete in recent years.

Registrations can be made at play.afl/play/afl-nines/byron-nines