James Dampney
The AFL continued to underline the importance of Sydney to the national competition on Wednesday, spreading its message to NSW State Parliament at a reception attended by members of the Sydney Swans and GWS.
Less than three weeks before the clubs go head-to-head in the opening round of the AFL season, NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell welcomed AFL boss Andrew Demetriou and members of the two Sydney teams to parliament.
And O'Farrell was happy to spruik the message that AFL is making significant inroads in a city where rugby league has dominated for a century.
"I'm grateful for the investment the AFL is putting into this city and this state," O'Farrell said.
"What's important about this is to acknowledge that Sydney and NSW have two teams in the national AFL competition.
"Not just the Swans, who have been part of this state for 30 years, but also now Greater Western Sydney.
"It's fantastic to see these two teams here and it will be a fantastic event on March 24 when these two great parts of sporting infrastructure come together."
GWS GIANTS co-captain Callan Ward, along with Swans co-captain Jarrad presented O'Farrell with a special Guernsey featuring the GIANTS design on one side and the Swans on the other.
It was one of a host of functions the AFL is holding in Sydney to spread the message that the game is in the city to stay.
The GIANTS and the Swans recently held an event at Homebush Bay to mark 50 days until the two teams meet for the first time, while the AFL will officially launch its season in Sydney in the days leading up to round one.
"It's very fitting to be here in Sydney at such an exciting time for our great game," Demetriou said.
"As we move closer to when the GWS Giants play their first ever AFL premiership match, we also look forward to launching our season here.
"It's the first time it has been held outside of Melbourne.
"It reflects the importance with which we regard Sydney.
"I encourage all Sydneysiders to choose a team and get out to ANZ Stadium on the 24th of March and support this game."
