The 7 Steps
Step 1 - Make A Commitment
In so many ways this is the most important step. Before deciding to set up an Aussie Rules Club, you should consider that it will demand a commitment of time and energy by you and others, particularly at the start. The one guarantee is that you will find it rewarding as any member of our existing clubs will tell you. You will need to be organised, efficient and willing to put in the hours.
Step 2 - Recruit Members
Every football club succeeds or fails on the strength of its members. You will need to recruit playing and non-playing members, male and female, fit or otherwise. The beauty of an Aussie Rules Club is that there is a role for anyone. You will need as a minimum 12 Playing members, plus possibly coaches, goal umpires and if someone is interested umpires. Players can be recruited who participate in other sports. Most Aussie Rules players in England play Rugby or Soccer and find that playing Aussie Rules compliments rather than detracts from the playing of other sports. Once you have recruited your core group, the workload can be shared. In order to start recruiting you will need a Facebook group. You will also need a contact list of local media, to help get your message out there.
Step 3 - Set a Club Structure
Once you have recruited members you should hold a meeting and elect club officers. The workload can then be divided and the club can begin to build. Most clubs should have a President, Secretary, Treasurer and a Coach. Depending on the size of your membership, other roles can be assigned too.
Step 4 - Obtain Facilities
Every club needs access to good facilities, initially for training and ultimately for games. Because the ARUK National League is played with reduced numbers a Rugby pitch is ideal. You can arrange access to facilities by entering into an agreement with an existing Rugby club, as many of our existing clubs have.
Step 5 - Obtain Equipment
Before you can commence training and playing you will need footballs first and later playing kit. ARUK will supply you with free footballs to help get you started. Once you have enough players to form a team we will provide you with jumpers as well.
Step 6 - Commence Training
Because many clubs are established without previous experience of the sport we can help train your coaches, who in turn can begin taking training sessions for the club. Check out the website for some great resources relating to coaching drills and skills.
Step 7 - Start Competing
Once you take to the field the sky's the limit. Your best players will have the chance to represent England, and everyone else will get to meet and mix socially with the many wonderful members of our existing clubs.