Central Australian Football League

The Central Australian Football League (CAFL) is an exciting Australian rules football competition in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia. Established in 1947, it is the oldest, most popular, and most important football league in Central Australia. The CAFL is known for producing talented players like Darryl White, Joel Bowden, and Liam Jurrah who have gone on to play in the Victorian Football League (VFL) and Australian Football League (AFL).

The CAFL organizes exciting events every year. One of the most famous events is the Ngurratjuta Town Vs Country Challenge, where teams from the town and country compete. The league also holds local Rec Footy competitions, which are fun and involve the whole community.

Current Clubs

Premier Division

• Alkamilya Panthers (Founded in 2011, only field senior women's team)

• Federal Demons (Founded in 1947)

• Pioneer Eagles (Founded in 1947)

• Rovers Double Blues (Founded in 1947)

• South Alice Springs Kangaroos

• West Alice Springs Bloods (Founded in 1968)

Community League

• Arlparra Dockers

• Ltyentye Apurte Eagles

• Mt Allan Eagles

• Mutitjulu Cats

• Papunya Eagles

• Titjikala Hawks

• Ti Tree Roosters

• Utju Tigers

• Western Aranda Bulldogs

• Yuendumu Magpies

Premierships

The CAFL has a long history of competitive games and championships. Here are some of the notable teams and their premiership wins:

• Alkamilya Panthers - 1 Premiership (2023)

• Federal Demons - 14 Premierships (1950, 1955, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1974, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2023)

• Pioneer Eagles - 32 Premierships (1947, 1948, 1951, 1953, 1956, 1957, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1971, 1972, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1981, 1983, 1985, 1987, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1994, 1997, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2009, 2010, 2022)

• Rovers Double Blues - 14 Premierships (1952, 1954, 1964, 1973, 1978, 1986, 1988, 1996, 2012, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021)

• South Alice Springs Kangaroos - 7 Premierships (1984, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1999, 2003, 2014)

• West Alice Springs Bloods - 8 Premierships (1979, 1980, 1982, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007)

Community Engagement

The CAFL is more than just a football league; it’s a big part of the community. It hosts many events that bring people together. From family fun days to charity matches, these events are a great way for people to connect, celebrate, and enjoy football. They also help to showcase local talent and build strong community ties.

Player Development

The CAFL is proud of its role in developing talented players. Many players who started in the CAFL, like Darryl White, Joel Bowden, and Liam Jurrah, have gone on to play in higher leagues like the VFL and AFL. The league’s commitment to nurturing talent is evident in its many programs and success stories.

Recent Developments

In recent years, the CAFL has grown even more. It has increased community engagement with youth development programs and women’s football leagues. The league also hosts inter-regional matches and partners with local businesses to support player development. Notable players like Liam Jurrah continue to inspire young athletes, showing the league’s dedication to fostering talent.

The Central Australian Football League is a cornerstone of Australian Rules Football in Central Australia. With a rich history, strong community involvement, and a commitment to developing talent, the CAFL continues to thrive and inspire future generations of players and fans.

For more detailed information visit CAFL Wikipedia Page.