2010 Baltimore Washington Eagles Open Day

Time: 10am to 2pm (KIDS CLINIC AT 12.30P)
When: Saturday March 20
Where: Bluemont Park, 601 N Manchester St Arlington VA 22203
What: Free clinics and games for all ages. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!

The Baltimore Washington Eagles will open their 2010 season with a full day of footy and social activities including a Kids' Clinic, an Open Training Session for all interested parties. The day's events will begin with an open training session at 10am followed by a DCFootyKids' Clinics and game starting at 12.30pm at Bluemont Park in Arlington. Boys and girls aged 5 to 15 are welcome to participate in the fun and free activities to learn the skills and rules of the great game of Australian football. The Eagles will run an adult clinic for any potential players or supporters looking to learn how to play Australian Rules football. We'll show you all the basic skills and then have a co-ed, non-contact Ausball game. All ages and skill levels are welcome to participate.

Come down and meet members of the best Australian football team in the USA as well representatives of the national men’s team, the US Revolution and the national women’s team, the US Freedom!

The Eagles are a not-for-profit 501(c)(4) who run local adult and youth competitions in the Washington/Baltimore area and field a representative team that competes in the First Division national competition. Website: http://www.baltimoredceagles.com/ and http://www.dcfootykids.blogspot.com/. For information on adult footy contact Tony Goodman at president@baltimoredceagles.com or 734-330-4832, and for information on youth footy contact Chris Adams at ChristopherPAdams@gmail.com or 703-217-3625.

Ready for 2010?

Are you ready for another great season of footy?

The main season will run from second last Saturday in June through to the fourth Saturday of July at Bluemont Park in Arlington VA.

Saturday Morning Footy is for boys and girls aged 5 and older. No experience or knowledge of the game is necessary. The program teaches the skills and rules of Australian football through fun games and activities. The games are non-contact with emphasis on participation and having fun in a safe and encouraging environment.

If you are interested in participating or coaching or would like our coaching staff to visit your school or organization then email Chris Adams at christopher_p_adams "AT" hotmail "DOT" com.

December 13 Punting Camp!

On Sunday December 13, the Baltimore Washington Eagles are conducting a punting camp for junior and adult players. The camp will take place at the Gunston Bubble (1390 28th St S Arlington VA).

NOTE: ARLINGTON WEATHER LINE IS 703-228-4715. As the Bubble is inside, we will probably continue with rain, but if there is a winter storm with dangerous driving conditions then we will reschedule the clinic.


The junior clinic for boys and girls aged 8 to 13 will begin at 1pm and run to 2.30pm. The adult clinic (aged 14 or over) will begin at 2.30pm and run to 4pm.


The camp is offered for FREE and it is open to anyone interested in learning how to punt.


Would you like to punt like the Philadelphia Eagles Sav Rocca or the Arizona Cardinals Ben Graham? Both former Australian football players. How about kick like an Australian Wallaby or New Zealand All-Black half-back? Most international rugby teams include an Australian footballer on the coaching staff to help with rugby's kicking game. Play Gaelic and want the skills of County Kerry's Tadhg Kennelly? Would you want to punt better in flag or tackle football? Want to be able to punt to feet or kick it over the half as a goalie in soccer? Want to punt a ball through a basketball net from the half-court line?? Want to be a better footy player for Arlington's Saturday Morning Footy or the Baltimore Washington Eagles? If you answer "YES" to any of these then the December 13 Punting Camp is for you!


Click on the link to REGISTER for the FREE camp.

Collingwood signs American

Arizona Cardinal's Ben Graham punting for Geelong

Philadelphia Eagles Sav Rocca punts for Collingwood

Former AFL player Mike Byrne coaching the All-Black kickers

Tadgh Kennelly kicks a point for Kerry in All-Ireland final

Irish player punts a basketball goal

Ashlawn Elementary Global Citizenship kickoff

We are going to be at Ashlawn Elementary's Global Citizenship kickoff on Tuesday October 20 demonstrating Australian football in the gym starting around 7.30pm.

Click the link to download a flyer for the DCFootyKids program.

Washington Post Video of the Eagles

Presentation to 2009 USFooty Admin Conference

Junior Footy at USFooty National Championship

At the 2009 USFooty National Championship Tournament in Mason OH there will be two FREE junior footy clinics and a Junior Footy Exhibition game on Sunday prior to the Division 1 National Championship game.

Junior Footy schedule

Saturday October 10 1 pm Coopers Field: Free clinic/game

Sunday October 11 1 pm Division II Field: Free clinic/game

Sunday October 11 3.35 pm Coopers Field: Junior Exhibition game

All events will take place at Heritage Oak Park in Mason OH. If you are participating, please plan on arriving 10 or 15 minutes prior to the start time.

Click on the link to REGISTER FOR JUNIOR PROGRAM AT NATIONALS.

AFL Grand Final in Washington DC

On Friday, September 25th, the Australian Embassy in Washington, DC will be hosting a Grand Final Party to celebrate the final match of the AFL season. Experience the greatest game on earth in the wonderful setting of downtown DC. The doors will open at 10pm and the game will begin at midnight. You should purchase your tickets in advance as they will not be available at the door. Tickets are $15 a piece, which includes one complementary drink. Please contact us if you are interested in purchasing tickets to attend the event.

2009 Report on Saturday Morning Footy

To view the report (pdf) click: DC's Saturday Morning Footy: A report on the Baltimore Washington Eagles junior football program.

Video: Daniel Motlop goal kicking

Saturday Morning Footy 2009 wraps up!

Saturday Morning Footy July 25

When: 9am to 10.30am Saturday July 25
Where: Bluemont Park (601 N Manchester St Arlington VA 22203). South end.
What: Fun and safe activities and games to introduce the skills and rules of footy/Australian football to boys and girls 5 to 15.
How much: FREE!
To Bring: Hat, sunscreen, water bottle. Cleats are suggested.

Eagles take first game from Blues

On July 11, we had our first game of the three game U12 series between the Eagles and the Blues. It was an absolutely perfect day for footy with temperatures in the mid 70s and sunshine at kickoff.

The first half was pretty even, with the Blues actually having more shots at goal but they weren't able to convert. Braeden was a rock in defense putting the Eagle forward under pressure when they got near the ball. Tricia was also excellent for the Blues in the ruck.

Nathan was doing an excellent job but only had 2 points to show for his great efforts. Isaac was the sole goal kicker for the Blues. The Eagles had more success on the score board with Brendan scoring two goals for the Eagles. The half ended Blues 1.3 (9) trailing the Eagles 2.2 (14).

In the second half, things started to go the Eagles way. CJ was able to get the ball and there was great team work between Brendan and CJ. Ben was also working hard and had a great pass to CJ and then a great mark in front of goal from which he was able to convert. Philip also, had a great game was able to get on the score board.

For the Blues, it was tough although they were still working hard. David was able to get the Blues only goal for the half. At the end, though things went to Eagles 5.5 (35) to the Blues 2.4 (16).

Great umpiring by Joe Lily.

The U8s also had a great time showing some excellent skills.

Coach Chris goes to pick up the ball while playing for the Essendon Bombers against the Collingwood Magpies in front of about 30,000 at half-time at Windy Hill. This was part of the "Vic Kick" junior footy program run at Ringwood East Primary School by Dennis Hogg.

Saturday Morning Footy July 18

When: 9am - 10.30am Saturday July 18
Where: Bluemont Park (601 N Manchester St Arlington VA 22203) - south end.
How much: FREE!
What to bring: water bottle, cleates are recommended, also hat and sunscrean are recommended.

Snacks and drinks will be provided after the event.

Highlights of the Eagles game against New York.

Marking

This week the U12s are going to work on marking. Here is a video to see how the professionals do it.

Saturday Morning Footy July 11

Saturday Morning Footy starts back up on July 11 after the break for July 4.

When: 9am - 10.30am Saturday July 11
Where: Bluemont Park, 601 N Manchester St Arlington VA 22203 (South end)
What: Fun activities and games to introduce Australian football to girls and boys aged 5 to 15.
How much: FREE!
To Bring: Water bottle, T-shirt and shorts, cleates are suggested. We also recommend hats and suncream. Snacks and drinks will be provided at the end of the session.

Saturday Morning Footy enjoys beautiful weather

After last week's pouring rain, it was great to have beautiful sunny weather for Saturday Morning Footy. The program began with the under 8s and the under 12s going through basic skills of handball and kicking. Then after warm up games, the under 8s had a game of "punt" ball (like kick ball except you punt the ball) while the U12s played "ulitimate footy" (like Ultimate except with kicking and handpassing).





The U8s plus parents and the U12s played a game between the Eagles and the Blues. For the U8s, Luka and Max starred for the Eagles. In the U12 game it was a close contest with the Blues taking it with a late goal to Phillip after marking in the square. Katie was excellent for the Blues getting the ball out of the pack to Nathan who scored coming off the backline and Braedan was great in defense. For the Eagles, CJ and Brendan worked well together and Aidan was a rock in defense.

Big thank you to former Eagle and Canadian National team representative, Rob Brunton, for coming out and coaching the junior Eagles.

NEXT: Saturday July 11 at 9am at Bluemont Park.

Become a junior member of the BW Eagles!

Become a Junior Eagle and get a SUPER COOL Eagles baseball style T-shirt as well as other cool stuff. Proceeds go to the Baltimore Washington Eagles, a 501c(4) Not-For-Profit working hard to develop footy in the Washington DC area.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN NOW!

Saturday Morning Footy: June 27

When: 9am to 10.30am June 27
Where: Bluemont Park (601 N Manchester St Arlington VA 22203). The field is at the south end. Note there is a parking lot and a bathroom block located at the south end of the field.
What to bring: Water bottle, suggest also bring cleats, hat and put on sunscreen.
How much: Free! Snacks and drinks will be provided.

Saturday Morning Footy kicks off in the rain!

On Saturday June 20, the junior footy program, Saturday Morning Footy, kicked off in the pouring rain. For the Australians it was "just like home" except it was much warmer than a cold and wet Melbourne Saturday morning in the middle of winter.

Seventeen boys and girls between 5 and 15 and their parents braved the rain to learn some "wet weather footy". The younger group went through fun introductory footy games with RJ Wheelock and Jay Levesque, two BW Eagles and US Revolution stand outs. The older group worked on their "pick up" skills - the ball spends a lot of time on the ground when it is wet.

The session ended with the games for both groups. In the older group, the Blues took on the Eagles in a very even contest. Cameron was a big threat for the Blues up forward, while CJ and Charlie worked well together to keep the Eagles in the game. Braedan was a rock in defense for the Blues.

Thanks to all the parents who helped out. Thanks also to Eagles RJ, Jay and Joe. Also a big thank you to Paul Reddacliff a member of the Eagles coaching staff and a former junior footy coach in Australia.

Next Saturday Morning Footy is Saturday June 27 at Bluemont Park, beginning at 9am.

Saturday Morning Footy: June 20

When: 9am to 10.30am

Where: Bluemont Park (601 N Manchester St 22203)

To bring: Water, running shoes (cleats suggested), hat and sunscreen also encouraged.

How much: FREE!

Other stuff:

1.  Please sign in when you arrive.  If you have registered, just check the box.

2.  Parents are encouraged to participate and help the coaches.

3.  There is a toilet block south of the field at the end of the parking lot and another to the north at the tennis courts.

4.  Snacks and drinks will be provided at the end of the session.

5.  Arlington sports weather line is 703-228-4715.  We will stop if there is lightning or thunder.

Saturday Morning Footy 2009.

Saturday Morning Footy begins its fourth year as the premier junior Australian football program in the United States.  The program is run be DCFootyKids and the Baltimore Washington Eagles Australian Rules Football Club and it is designed to introduce boys and girls aged 5 to 15 to the great game of Australian football.  IT IS FREE!!!  

This year, the program begins JUNE 20 and runs each Saturday morning from 9.00 to 10.30 am until JULY 27 (with a break for 4th of July).  Everything takes place at Bluemont Park in Arlington VA.  Click here to register.  You are welcome to attend just one or all five!

The program involves games and activities designed to introduce the skills and rules of the game in a fun way.  For the older and more experienced players there will be introductory house league.  All games and activities are non-contact.

Contact Chris Adams at 703-217-3625 or christopher_p_adams "AT" hotmail.com if you have any questions.

George Mason Open Day and Kids Clinic

On Saturday June 6 at Noon there will be an Open Day and Kids clinic at George Mason University if Fairfax VA. After the clinic, everyone can watch a Metro Cup game between Northern Virginia and Baltimore.

When: 12noon to 2pm Saturday June 6 (RAIN or SHINE)

Where: George Mason University (Fairfax Campus) Intramural Field #3
Rapidan River Road, Fairfax, VA 22030 (after the Field House turn left from University Drive)

What: Free clinics for all ages and metro footy game.
NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!

Best of DC!

According to the Washington City Paper, Footy is one of the best participatory sports in DC.

"Australian Rules Football

Ground Rules: Get the ball between the goal posts using pretty much any means necessary— running, tackling, kicking, and blocking the ball with any part of your body. A cross between soccer and football, Aussie rules, or “footy,” is a contact sport which requires no sort of protective padding—“just a mouthguard,” says Tony Goodman, president of the Baltimore Washington Eagles (baltimoredceagles.com). In fact, a recent club flier states, “Pads would just cover up the bruises.” Aussie Rules goes a long way in explaining Russell Crowe.

Where to Play: The Eagles welcome new players to training sessions and, for those who don’t fancy turning up to the office black and blue, there’s also a coed non-contact version called Ausball developed by one of the assistant coaches (annual dues for both are $60). For pint-sized beginners, there’s an offshoot club (DC Footy Kids, dcfootykids.blogspot.com), which is free, but don’t worry, Goodman says that “the kids’ version, of course, doesn’t include tackling!” "

See more here.

Registration now open!

After a very successful Open Day on March 14, we have opened up registration for the Saturday Morning Footy which will run from June 20 to July 25 at Bluemont Park in Arlington. This is a free program designed to introduce boys and girls aged 5 to 15 to the great game of Australian football. The program includes fun activities to teach the skills and rules of the game. Each session will end with a non-contact game. For the older kids, the game will be part of a house league. To register click the link on the side bar. Note that program is FREE!

Click the link to register: Register Here.

Eagles Open Day March 14

The Baltimore Washington Eagles and DCFootyKids are having an Open Day on Saturday March 14 at Bluemont Park in Arlington. Come down and learn about the great game of Australian football. There will be clinics and activies for the kids. You can also meet and practice with members of the 2008 EAFL Champions, the Baltimore Washington Eagles, and representatives of the US National team, the American Revolution!

When: 10am to 2pm Saturday March 13
Where: Bluemont Park, 601 N Manchester St, Arlington, VA 22203
What: Fun, free activities for kids, parents, and players.

Baltimore Washington Eagles

Register for Coaching Course

Register for Winter Camp

Kids Clinics/Games at Nationals

On October 11/12, the USFooty National Championship Tourney is at the US Airfore Academy in Colorado Springs CO. There will be kids clinics and games during the weekend. The clinics and games are for boys and girls aged 5 to 16. They will be non-contact and designed to introduce the kids to the skills and rules of footy.

The likely schedule is:
Saturday October 11 at 2pm: Boomerang Field
Sunday October 12 at 11am: Location TBA

If you are interested in participating please email christopher_p_adams "AT" hotmail.com.

Game 2: Saturday September 20 3pm Bluemont

DC Footy Kids is having its second game of the year.

When: Saturday September 20 3pm
Where: Bluemont Park #1 (field furthest from the tennis courts).

Bring cleats and water. This will be a non-contact game and we will go through some rules and skills before the game.

This game will be in conjunction with a game between No. 1 Baltimore Washington Eagles and the Philly Hawks.

There will be free clinics and games for boys and girls aged from 5 to 16.

Jay and RJ off to great start

Eagles RJ (left) and Jay (right) work to get the ball out against Denmark during the International Cup in Melbourne. The American Revolution are 2-0 with a game against South Africa coming up.

For more go to USFootyNews.com.

Saturday Morning Footy kicks off

On Saturday July 12, DCFootyKids helds its first Saturday Morning Footy session.  It was great to have so many kids and parents out kicking the footy around.  

With the help of Eagles Coach Aaron Tyndall and Revo RJ Wheelock, we went through a number of skills and skill games including "sink the ship", "hot hands", and "keep away".

Saturday Morning Footy finished with a great game between the Eagles and the Blues.

The Eagles had some great plays, but the play of the day was from the Blues with a couple of great hand passes leading to a great goal.  The game ended with a goal from a tight angle after siren.

NEXT: July 19 9am Saturday Morning Footy at Bluemont Park.

Saturday Morning Footy Begins July 12

Saturday Morning Footy combines clinics and non-contact games to introduce the skills, rules and incredible fun of Australian football to boys and girls aged 5 to 16.

When: 9.00 am to 10.30 am July 12, 19 and 26.

Where: Bluemont Park (Field #1) in Arlington VA

What: Bring water bottle, sunscreen, running shoes and a hat. Cleats are optional but suggested as the field is often wet in the morning.

How Much: FREE!

We will have fun activities to introduce the boys and girls (and their parents) to Australian football with each session ending with a fun non-contact game.

Representatives from the Baltimore Washington Eagles and the US National Team, the American Revolution will provide coaching and instruction.

For more information email christopher_p_adams AT hotmail DOT com.

Arlington Blues home against DC Eagles

On June 28 2008, the DC Junior Eagles played their first full game against their determined rival the Arlington Junior Blues. On a hot evening in Bluemont Park, the DC Junior Eagles took on the Arlington Junior Blues in a 9-a-side non-contact game. The boys and girls ages 5 to 10 played the game all out from the start.

The game was hosted by DCFootyKids and the Baltimore Wahington Eagles.

NEXT: Saturday Morning Footy at 9am July 12 at Bluemont Park

(PHOTO: Blue boy flys for the mark)

The first quarter was all Eagles, as CJ, Finian, Artur and Ameen controlled the middle and scored some great goals. The Blues needed to regroup at the quarter break and did just that. The Blues came back hard in the second, led by Cullen and Kenteriz. The Eagles defenders of Noah and Jalen worked hard but were not able to stop the Blues from taking the lead going into the big break.

The third quarter was goal for goal as each team fought hard for the ball in a tight contest. The Eagles scored a couple of nice goals, including one from Noah who ran hard from the back line. But the Blues were also moving the ball better, exemplafied by a great bit of play where Cullen kicked to Kenteriz who marked in the center and quickly played on to Jasmeen who marked in the forward line.

In the last quarter, the Blues smaller players started to get on top, particularly Dennis and John, while the Eagles were starting to run out of legs. With the clock winding down, CJ kicked the goal of the day with a great pick up and snap that slid passed the goal post.

BEST

Arlington Junior Blues: Cullen, Kenteriz, Jasmeen, Dennis

DC Junior Eagles: CJ, Finian, Noah, Artur

Umpires: Chris Adams and Tony Goodman

Junior Eagles Membership

House League Teams

EAGLES

JUMPER: Royal blue and yellow

SHORTS: Royal blue

SOCKS: Royal blue and yellow

CJ A.

Ben B. (traded from Bombers)

Luka B.

Joe B.

Thomas Co. (traded from Bombers)

Jamie F.

Nicolas H.

Andres P.

Noah S.

Lachlan W.

BLUES

JUMPER: Navy blue and white

SHORTS: White

SOCKS: Navy blue

TEAM MEMBERS

Christopher-Thomas C.

Timothy E.

Ben G.

Robby G.

Cameron M.

Anna M.

Max P.

Natalie R.

Jonathan W.

David W.

BOMBERS

JUMPER: Black with red sash

SHORTS: Black

SOCKS: Black and red

TEAM MEMBERS

Spencer A. (traded from Eagles)

Lucia B.

Thomas Ca. (traded from Eagles)

Alexander G.

Jack H.

Dana M.

Philip P.

Mackena S.

Cami S.

Daniel S.

Martin W.

House League Schedule

Round 1: June 26

9.00 Introduction and warm up

9.15 Eagles v Blues (Bombers practice with coaching staff)

9.40 Eagles v Bombers (Blues practice)

10.05 Blues v Bombers (Eagles practice)

Round 2: July 10

9.00 Introduction and warm up.

9.15 Blues v Eagles (Bombers practice with coaching staff)

9.40 Blues v Bombers (Eagles practice)

10.05 Bombers v Eagles (Blues practice)

Round 3: July 17

9.00 Introduction and warm up.

9.15 Bombers v Blues (Eagles practice with coaching staff)

9.40 Bombers v Eagles (Blues practice)

10.05 Eagles v Blues (Bombers practice)

Finals: July 24

9.00 Introduction

9.10 Skills session.

9.30 Preliminary Final: 2 v 3 (1 practice)

10.00 Grand Final: 1 v winner of PF

House League MVP

After each game a designated official (coach, umpire etc) gives votes for each teams best player. 3 votes for the best player, 2 for the next, and 1 for third best player on each team. The results are added up and this table presents the leading vote getters after the first two round of play.

Rank	Number	First Name	LI	Team	Votes
1	4	Max	P	Blues	10
2	1	CJ	A	Eagles	10
3	12	Thomas	Ca	Bombers	7
4	15	martin	W	Bombers	6
5	45	Jack	H	Bombers	6
6	44	Timothy	E	Blues	5
7	18	Dana	M	Bombers	4
8	5	Ben	T	Eagles	4
9		Anna	M	Blues	3
10	22	Lucia	B	Bombers	2
11	42	Andres	P	Bombers	2
12	25	Cameron	M	Blues	1
13	2	JOE	B	Eagles	1
14	11	Jamie	F	Eagles	1
15	31	Daniel	S	Bombers	1
16	32	Elie	T	Blues	1
17		Christopher-Thomas	C	Blues	1
18	1	Robby	G	Blues	1
19	15	Noah	S	Eagles	1
20	45	Robert	W	Bombers	1
21	3	Whit	T	Eagles	1

House League Goal Kickers

Table of goals scorers after Round 2.

Rank	Number	First Name	LI	Team	Goals
1	1	CJ	A	Eagles	18
2	4	Max	P	Blues	4
3	12	Thomas	Ca	Bombers	4
4	44	Timothy	E	Blues	4
5	25	Cameron	M	Blues	2
6	45	Jack	H	Bombers	2
7	4	LUKA	B	Eagles	1
8	2	JOE	B	Eagles	1
9	11	Jamie	F	Eagles	1
10	45	Robert	W	Bombers	1

House League Scores

Brief scores for games in Rounds 1 and 2. Goals (G) are worth 6 points, Behinds (B) are worth 1 point.

Round	Home	G	B	Total	Away	G	B	Total
1	Eagles	10	11	71	Blues	2	2	14	Score Sheet
1	Eagles	8	10	58	Bombers	0	1	1	Score Sheet
1	Bombers	0	4	4	Blues	2	6	18	Score Sheet
2	Bombers	5	0	30	Blues	4	4	28	Score Sheet
2	Blues	2	3	15	Eagles	7	1	43	Score Sheet
2	Bombers	0	3	3	Eagles	3	2	20	Score Sheet

House League Ladder

League table after Round 1. There are 4 points for a win, 2 for a draw. Percentage is used as tie breaker and is equal to 100*(Points For/Points Against).

Rank	Team	Wins	Losses	Draws	Points	Points For	Points Against	Percentage
1	Eagles	4	0	0	16	192	33	582
2	Blues	1	3	0	4	75	148	51
3	Bombers	1	3	0	4	38	134	28

Juniors Game on June 28

On Saturday June 28 at 6pm, we are having our first juniors game at Bluemont Soccer Field #1. Exact details to be worked out, but the plan will be to have some practice and skills/rules teaching then a no-contact juniors game. Afterwards we will have pizza and drinks most likely in the shelter at Bluemont Park (601 N Manchester St, Arlington VA 22203).

2010 House League

The 2010 SMF introductory house league is for girls and boys aged 9 to 15. The league plays modified rules with no tackling or bumping. There are 3 teams: Eagles, Blues and Bombers.

New players are welcome and can join at any time (online REGISTRATION HERE).

The league is FREE.

Games will be 2x7 minute halves, with no break between halves.

UNIFORMS: We will have complete uniforms (jumpers, shorts, socks). In order to keep costs to FREE, the jumpers will be handed out clean at the beginning of each session (players should wear white or matching T-shirt). Players will borrow shorts and socks for the season. They should be returned clean after the season ends or the player owes $10 to the club. I have Blues and Eagles shorts and socks available for pick up. Bombers shorts and socks are on order, in the mean time players are encouraged to wear black shorts and black/red socks.

Free Kick at Kenmore May 10

Saturday May 10 at 4pm there will be a "Free Kick" pick up game at Kenmore Middle School.  For information on parking and the location of the ASA soccer games is here.  We will be on the main soccer field (field #2 in the picture) or next to the ASA games on field #1.

DCFooty Kids Kicks Off 2008

DCFooty Kids kicked off the 2008 season with a free clinic at Bluemont Park (Arlington VA) on Saturday April 26. The clinic was part of the First Annual FitArlington Sports Festival.  The clinic started with the coaches going through some skills including handball, kicking and catching. Then the boys and girls were split into groups for some skill-games. The session ended with the Junior Eagles taking on the Junior Blues.

The FitArlington Sports Festival was organized by Arlington Sports and Rec's Eric Legg and included many different youth and adult sports offering clinics and demonstrations during the day. DCFooty Kids and the Baltimore Washington Eagles are greatful to FitArlington for hosting and running this event.

A number of the Eagles coaches and players came out to help. DCFooty Kids is very grateful to those that helped with the clinics. DCFooty Kids in particular wants to recognize Jay Levesque and RJ Wheelock who were recently named to US Revolution squad to represent the USA at the AFL International Cup in Melbourne in August. RJ and Jay are pictured coaching the Junior Eagles before the big game.

In the game, while the Eagles had some great play, including a nice snap goal from CJ, excellent ball movement from Noah, great play by Luca on the wing and some great defense by Robbie, the Blues led all game. Cullen did some great work for the Blues.  He was  helped by some excellent team work from Noah, Ameen, Yasmeen and great roving by Zach.

More photos here.

School Footy Tournament Registration

NOTE: THIS IS NOT THE REGISTRATION FOR SATURDAY MORNING FOOTY. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR SATURDAY MORNING FOOTY.

Free Clinic at Arlington Sports Festival

DCFooty Kids is running a free clinic on Saturday at 9am at Bluemont Park (Baseball Field #1) in association with FitArlington's Arlington Sports Festival.

Later in the day we are doing a "Free Kick" in association with the Eagles vs Tigers game which starts at 2.30pm at the Capitol Polo Fields in Poolesville MD.

Free Kick Saturday (4/12) 4pm Kenmore

We are having a free kick around for kids at 4pm on Saturday (4/12) at Kenmore Middle school.

Kids Gaelic Football

Saturday March 29, the DC Gaels are conducting a free clinic for Gaelic football at Chinquapin Park in Alexandria (by TC Williams on King St) at 12.30pm as part of the Alexandria Sports and Rec Open House.

2009 Saturday Morning Footy Registration

Thanks from Patrick Henry Elementary

Saturday Morning Footy Registration

2008 Junior Eagles Season

Welcome to the 2008 Junior Eagles Season. This year, DC Footy Kids will be working closely with the Arlington Parks and Rec. The calendar includes participating in the Arlington Sports Festival, having FREE clinics as part of BW Eagles Senior games and Saturday Morning Footy at Bluemont Park in July.

The clinics and games are designed to introduce boys and girls between 5 and 12 to the great game of Australian football. The games and clinics are fun and safe with no contact rules.

If you or your child is interested in participating please email christopher_p_adams@hotmail.com.

DC Footy Kids is also planning on visiting some schools in the Spring. If you are PE Teacher and would like us to come out to your school email christopher_p_adams@hotmail.com

Full-Forward Award

KICK-PASS-CATCH: Footy as Easy as 1-2-3

A FULL-FORWARD has mastery over advanced skills used in Australian football.

1. KICK (Punt)

a. Kick and hit a 1 x 1 meter (3 x 3 foot) target from 20 meters with both feet.

b. Starting from a 45 degree angle and 40 meters (120 feet) run at full pace receive a hand pass from a coach standing 35 meters (105 feet) and kick a goal.

2. PASS (Hand pass or punch)

a. Hand pass and hit a 1 x 1 meter (3 x 3 foot) target from 10 meters with both hands.

b. Starting from a 45 degree angle and 40 meters (120 feet) run at full pace and evade a defender by hand passing a give and go to one of the two coaches stationed 30 meters from goal and either side of the direct line to goal.

3. CATCH (Mark)

a. At full pace lead to a coach standing 50 meters (150 feet) away, mark the ball and hand pass to a coach running passed in the opposite direction.

b. Mark against a coach (defender) with a coach kicking from 40 meters (120 feet).

Half-Forward Award

KICK-PASS-CATCH: Footy as easy as 1-2-3

A HALF-FORWARD is capable performing advanced skills used in Australian football.

1. KICK (Punt)

a. Kick and hit a 1x1 meter (3x3 foot) target from 10 meters (30 feet) with preferred foot.

b. Kick to a stationary coach from 20 meters (60) feet with non-preferred foot.

2. PASS (Hand pass or punch)

a. Hand pass and hit 1 x 1 foot target from 5 meters (15 feet) with both hands.

b. Starting 30 meters (90 feet) from goal, at full run hand pass to a coach on the left 25 meters (75 feet) from goal, receive the ball back, hand pass to a coach on the right 20 meters (60 feet) from goal and kick a goal.

3. CATCH (Mark)

a. At full-pace lead toward the coach and mark the kick from 30 meters (90 feet).

b. Leap onto a dummy and catch a kick from a coach from 10 meters (30 feet).

Center Award

KICK-PASS-CATCH: Footy as easy as 1-2-3

A CENTER shows mastery in the essential skills and can perform advanced skills of Australian football

1. KICK (Punt)

a. Can correctly kick a drop punt to a stationary coach 20 meters (60 feet) away.

b. Kick the ball 10 meters (30 feet) with their non-preferred foot.

2. PASS (hand pass or punch)

a. Can correctly hand ball to a stationary coach 2 meters (6 feet) away with both hands.

b. Can hand ball to a coach 10 meters (30 feet) away.

3. CATCH (Mark)

a. Can lead to and catch a kick from a coach standing 30 meters (90 feet) away.

b. Can leap onto a dummy and catch a toss from a coach standing 2 meters (6 feet) away.

Flanker Award

KICK-PASS-CATCH: Footy as Easy as 1-2-3

A FLANKER is capable at performing the essentials skills of Australian football.

1. KICK (Punt)

a. Demonstrate correct drop punt technique (hold ball straight up and down, one handed release on to a pointed toe).

b. Punt the ball to a coach standing 10 meters (30 feet) away.

2. PASS (Hand pass or punch)

a. Demonstrate correct technique (ball lying flat on palm around waist high pointing at target, non-preferred foot forward and pointing at target, punch with a closed fist on the end of the ball).

b. Hand ball to a coach standing 2 meters (6 feet) away with left and right hand.

3. CATCH (Mark)

a. Demonstrate correct technique for leap and over head mark (hop off one foot, use other leg for protection, hands forward and above the head).

b. Mark a kick from the coach standing 10 meters (30 feet) away.

Rover Award

KICK-PASS-CATCH: Footy as easy as 1-2-3

A ROVER can perform the essential skills of Australian football:

1. KICK (Punt)

a. Demonstrate how to hold the ball correctly (straight up and down with ring finger down the seem and hand slightly below the center of the ball)

b. Kick the ball 10 meters (30 feet)

2. PASS (hand pass or punch)

a. Demonstrate how to hold the ball correctly (lay flat on the palm ready to be punched with a closed fist)

b. Hand pass the ball 1 meter (3 feet)

3. CATCH (Mark)

a. Demonstrate how to catch a ball over head (hands up in front of the face with thumbs forming a W)

b. Catch a ball on the chest from a coach throwing the ball 2 meters (6 feet)

Junior Nationals

USFooty National Championship tournament will be held at the Louisville City Soccer Park on October 13 and 14. There will be two FREE juniors clinics and a game for juniors during the weekend.

Clinic 1: Saturday 2pm (Between Field III and IV)
Clinic 2: Sunday 11am (Field III)
Game: Sunday 3.30pm (Field I)

Please email christopher_p_adams at hotmail.com if you are interested in participating.

Jnr Grand Final Party

We will be having a Jnr Grand Final Party to watch a delayed telecast of the AFL Grand Final on Saturday September 29 starting at 5pm. There will be food, drinks and activities for the kids.

U17 Canada vs USA

A couple of weeks ago at the BC Footy international weekend in Vancouver the Canadian men had their first ever win over the powerful United States team, winning the 49th Parallel Cup, before going down the next day in the keenly contested exhibition match. On the other hand the Canadian women struggled against their more experienced American counterparts, losing both matches by big margins, but the youthfulness of their squad promised better things to come. Now to the juniors and it was very positive to have the next generation of stars on display. The under 17s matches saw a large squad of young men from Canada - the Wolfpack - take on a smaller travelling party from the US.

... more at World Footy News.

Pics of U17 International

Go here for pics of the U17 International between US and Canada.

Juniors at USFooty Nationals

We are planning on conducting two clinics and some games during the USFooty National Tournament in Louisville KY on October 13/14. For more information click here.

Junior Eagles hold sway over Junior Blues at Bluemont

The Jnr DC Eagles 6.3 (39) defeated the Jnr DC Blues 1.1 (7) in a game that was tighter than the final score indicated. The game played after a USFooty Kids clinic in Bluemont Park in Arlington VA just outside of Washington DC. During the clinic the players went through their hand passing, kicking and marking/catching skills, and then used their skills in a game of "keep things off" or "keep away". They also practiced "buttering up" after a spilled ball (no - I don't really know what it means either). The game started as the heat of the day started to burn off the dew on the grass.

The Eagles flew out of the gates quickly with a number of goals by Cullen who seemed to easily weave through the Blues defense. In only a few minutes the Blues were trying to regroup and work out a line of attack. For the Blues, Joe and Natalie were attacking the ball, as were Robbie and Patrick for the Eagles. The Blues defense settled as Allison was able to bring the ball out to Matt and Joe on the wings. However, Cullen and Luka were also strong in defense so that almost every forward movement was thwarted. Still, despite a stronger defense, the Eagles were able to keep their score going up with CJ contributing with a number of marks and one picture perfect pick up at full stretch. Finally, the Blues were able to get some attacks going with some big kicks by Matt and great play be Allison and Joe. The game ended with lovely goal by Joe on siren.

Next game is in conjunction with the USFooty Kids clinic at Bluemont Park in Arlington on Saturday July 14 at 9am.

USFooty Kids Clinic Saturday July 14

Where: Bluemont Park Soccer Field (601 N Manchester St, Arlington, VA 22203, USA).
When: 9.00 am to 10.30 am Saturday July 14.
What: A junior clinic for boys and girls aged 5 to 16.

The clinic will teach players the rules and skills of Australian football. The clinic will incorporate fun games and include a little no-contact match at the end. Snacks and drinks will be provided. The boys and girls are asked to bring a bottle of water, cleats or running shoes and either a yellow or blue T-shirt.

If you would like to register on-line click the link on the right.

Note that the Soccer Field is on the other side of the creek and bike path - in the trees.

Saturday Morning Footy

9 to 10.30am from June 30 to July 28

Bluemont Park #1 (601 N Manchester St, Arlington, VA 22203, USA)

To register for Saturday Morning Footy click link on right hand side.

• The cost $20 (or $40 with a jersey). Scholarships are available.
• No equipment is necessary.
• It is recommended that players bring a water bottle, sun screen, and a football (footy, soccer ball, or American football).
• For boys and girls aged 5 to 16.

The first three Saturday mornings will be "clinics" with fun games to teach skills.

Each session will end with a game.

The last two Saturday mornings will be scheduled matches (although the emphasis will be on learning, fun and participation).

Snacks and drinks will be provided and participants will receive a free footy and junior membership of the Baltimore Washington Eagles (valued at $20). For more information please email christopher_p_adams@hotmail.com or call 703-217-3625.

What is USFooty Kids?

USFooty Kids is the US version of the very popular junior Australian football program called AFL Auskick (www.aflauskick.com.au).

Auskick is a hugely successful junior sporting program that emphasizes fun and participation in order to develop a life-long love of sport and Australian football in particular.

• As with Auskick there is no contact in USFooty Kids.
• In 2006 Auskick had almost 150,000 participants in 2,500 centers across Australia.
• USFooty is the governing body of Australian football in the US. In 2007 USFooty celebrates its 10th anniversary. Australian football celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2008.
• The game dates to the 1850s in booming Melbourne, Australia. At the time "football" had no consistent set of rules with players used rules from various English elite private schools (Eton, Rugby) and their home towns. In Melbourne, players came from a wide variety of backgrounds and preferences for various rules. The result was a consensus code that incorporates rules that are now used in soccer, rugby, American football and Gaelic football. Some believe that the game was also influenced by the local indigenous game of Mangrok.
• Today, Australian football dominates Australia's sporting culture - particularly in its home town of Melbourne.

USFooty Kids teaches a number of important sporting skills including punting and catching. Recently, the coach of the Welsh rugby team complained that Australia's rugby team (the Wallabies) had an advantage because of exposure to punting in Australian football from a young age.

In American football, a number Australians have made their mark on the NFL as punters.

• Darren Bennett and Mat McBriar were All-Star punters for the San Diego Chargers and Dallas Cowboys, respectively.
• Ben Graham is captain on the New York Jets and Sav Rocca is currently competing for the punting position at the Philadelphia Eagles.

However, the skill that USFooty Kids really emphasizes is team work. Game rules require that players pass the ball either by hand or by foot. It is amazing to watch kids who never pass the ball suddenly looking for team mates, running to position and call each other's names!

Saturday Morning Footy is in its second year after three very successful clinics in 2006.

The clinics will be run by:

• Chris Adams, an ASA coach for U7 Coed Hurts Hammers and former assistant coach for the Baltimore Washington Eagles.
  
• Denis Ryan, the National Coordinator for USFooty Kids and former Head Coach of the Baltimore Washington Eagles and the US national team the US Revolution.
  
• Rob Brunton, the President of the Baltimore Washington Eagles and former member of the Canadian Northwind.
  
• Matt Bishop, the current Head Coach of the Baltimore Washington Eagles.

Free Clinics and Saturday Morning Footy

1. Two FREE clinics
June 9: 1.30pm Field behind the Capitol Polo Club, on Hughes Rd Poolesville MD.
June 23: Time and Place TBA

Drinks and snacks provided. The clinics will run about 1 hour and will include fun games to teach skills followed by a short game. No equipment is necessary. Please bring a water bottle and either a yellow or blue T-shirt. We suggest a hat and suncream.

To register please email name, age and gender of the participant(s) to christopher_p_adams@hotmail.com. Pre-registration is not necessary but helps with planning.


2. Saturday Morning Footy
June 30 to July 28
9.00am - 10.30am at TJs Upper (to be confirmed by Arlington)

Drinks and snacks provided. The first three weeks will be clinics and the last two weeks will be matches. The clinics and matches will be no contact and no equipment is necessary. Please bring a water bottle and a football (footy, soccer ball or American football).

To register click here. The cost is $20 for which participants will get a footy and junior membership of the Baltimore Washington Eagles. For additional $20 the player may sign up and get a jersey. EVERY ONE PLAYS! If you need assistance please email christopher_p_adams@hotmail.com or call me at 703-217-3625. USFooty will provide free brand new jerseys to those who need them.

FREE USFooty Kids Clinics

The Baltimore Washington Eagles are hosting two FREE USFooty Kids clinics and Saturday Morning Footy registration is open.

June 9: 2.30-3.30pm Polo Ground (Ohio Drive Washington DC)
This clinic will be conducted between the USFooty double header. 8th ranked BW Eagles host 10th ranked NC Tigers at 12.30 and NC Tigers take on the Philly Hawks at 3.30pm.

June 23: Time and Place TBA
This clinic will be conducted during the first half of the USFooty game between 8th ranked BW Eagles and 5th ranked Boston Demons.

June 30: Saturday Morning Footy begins - register by clicking on first link to the right.

Snacks and drinks provided. No experience necessary. Clinics open for all kids aged 5 to 16. The games will be no contact and no protective gear is necessary. Clinics are designed for all levels to have fun and participate in a great sport.

Participants are asked to wear either a yellow or a blue T-shirt and bring a water bottle. Appropriate running shoes are required. We also recommend sun cream and a hat for when they are watching the big boys.

Please email christopher_p_adams@hotmail.com to register as it will help with planning.

Jersey's For Purchase

Email me at christopher_p_adams@hotmail to purchase a jumper/jersey. They come in three styles and three sizes: Eagles, Blues or Bombers in YS, YM or YL. There is some choice regarding numbers. Cost is $30. Note that if you sign up for the clinics/games then a jersey is included for just ten dollars more ($40).

Free Clinics and Little League Games

On June 9 and June 23 the Baltimore Washington Eagles will be conducting Free USFooty Kids clinics with "little league" games to be played at the half-time of the senior games.

On June 9, the Baltimore Washington Eagles (8) host the North Carolina Tigers (9). The free clinic will be conducted during the first half of the senior game with the kids game at half-time of the senior game. This is a double header weekend with North Carolina Tigers (9) taking on the Philadelphia Hawks for Eastern Australian Football League Points.

On June 23 the Eagles host the Boston Demons (6). Again there will be a free clinic during the first half with a kids game at half-time of the senior game.

To register for the free clinic email christopher_p_adams@hotmail.com.

USFooty Kids Roll Easter Eggs at the White House

(Washington DC) On Easter Monday, participants in the Washington DC USFooty Kids/Auskick program and their families spent the morning the the South Lawn at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll.  The theme of this year's Easter Egg Roll was childhood obesity, physical activity and fitness (which my wife thought was very funny given the amount of chocolate on hand for the kids).  Melissa Johnson, Executive Director of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, was gracious enough to give USFooty Kids 25 tickets for the event.  Denis Ryan, USFooty Kids National Director, passed the tickets onto the local chapter.


USFooty Kids parents were very excited to get the opportunity to participate in the event as it is extremely difficult to get the few publicly available tickets.  Families are known to camp out over night to get tickets for the event. Despite a very cold Spring morning, everyone was very excited about the opportunity to get up close and personal with the White House.


Sporting footy jumpers, USFooty Kids T-shirts and Auskick Baseball caps in lieu of spring dresses and pink sweater vests, the families had a great time rolling, finding and painting Easter Eggs, watching magic shows and keeping an eye out for our host, Mrs Bush.  For those not aware, an Easter Egg roll involves a wooden spoon, a colored egg, a grassy hill and some marked running lanes. The kids push the egg down the hill to try to be first, although everyone is a winner!  Some of the USFooty Kids were pretty excited and may have been penalized for "throwing" rather than "pushing" the egg down the hill. Other USFooty Kids were lucky enough to be read to by Mrs Bush and Mrs Cheney.  For fans of "West Wing" it was cool to walk past the actual West Wing of the White House and imagine President Bartlett out there chatting with his closest advisors.

Spring and Summer are Coming!

Spring Events:

1. School Visits: We are talking to a couple of elementary and middle schools about visiting and teaching Footy in the PE Classes. If you are interested in such a visit or would like to help, please email me at christopher_p_adams@hotmail.com.

2. "Little League Games": The Baltimore Washington Eagles are hosting two Eastern Australian Football League (EAFL) games. The first against the North Carolina Tigers on June 9 and the second against the Boston Demons on June 23. We will be organizing to play "Little League Games" at the half-time of these EAFL games. There will be a FREE clinic during the first half and then the kids will play a game during the half-time break of the EAFL game.


Summer Events

1. Saturday Morning USFooty Kids Clinics: We are planning to have three USFooty Kids Clinics in the Summer beginning on Saturday June 30. These clinics will be for kids 6 to 16 and will be designed to teach the skills of Footy in a fun and safe environment. Each Saturday morning session will end with a game, with the kids broken up into teams in appropriate age groupings. Participants will receive a Goodie Bag with cool Footy stuff. Drinks and snacks will be provided after the clinics.

2. "DCFooty Kids Premiership": Saturday July 21 and 28 teams will compete in round-robin and knock-out phases to crown the inaugural DC Footy Kids Premier (in each age-group). While providing some competition the emphasis will be on team-work, sportsmanship, skill development and having FUN!

To register for the clinics and the league games go here ($20 for the clinics/league (without a jersey) and $40 with a jersey)

Ben Graham Visit

The Baltimore Washington Eagles are currently working with New York Jets Captain and Punter, Ben Graham, to visit some Arlington schools in the Spring. Ben Graham is the 33 year old second year punter and co-captain for the New York Jets. He is formerly the Captain of the Geelong Cats in the Australian Football League.