The men started the tournament with a local derby between the Eagles/Bayhawks and the Cougars/Saints. All teams put everything on the line to win their respective games. The young guns from the eagles/bayhawks, all used to being up early for Calculus 101 at UBC at 8am, were all fresh and ready to play. This alertness proved the difference as they ran over the older more experienced players of the cougars/saints in game 1.

The calgary team rocked up in what looked like the traditional definition of a stampede which is of course endemic to their home town. All 40 of them arrived together, some with sore heads, others with the glint in the eye of one keen to start the footy season in beautiful BC. Calgary won one and lost one in the round robin but on percentage was able to reach the final ahead of the Cougars.

The womens game was a hard fought battle with traditional rivals from neighbouring provinces going head to head. Although the BC team looked strong early it remained a close contest. All girls were giving everything on the field; laying hard tackles, taking the big marks and of course doing the 1%ers that make the difference in those close games. Deservedly the game finished in a draw as both teams left everything on the field.

Next up was the much anticipated mens final for the BC Cup. The finalists, Calgary and the Eagles/Bayhawks, lined up after a win and a loss each in the earlier round robin. The calgary team, winning the earlier match-up between the two teams were the early favourites, but with fatigue setting in this was really anyones game. The desperation and hardness at the ball ensured that this game was an all out arm wrestle. It took a good while before the first goal was scored as player threw themselves at every contest just to make that little difference to benefit their team. Eventually the home team broke through with a couple goals. But Calgary soon responded with some clean deliveries into the forward line. Half time saw both teams closely placed and both teams were in it for the second. Whether it be home ground advantage or lack of “bus legs” after the 12 hour drive from calgary, the eagles/bayhawks came out firing in the second half.

The BC Cup, otherwise known as the “boot”, remains in BC!

9:00 – Setup

10:00 – Vancouver V Bayhawks

10:45 Seattle V Calgary

11:30 Bayhawks V Calgary

12:15 Vancouver V Seattle

13:00 BC Womens V AB Womens

14:00 Bayhawks V Seattle

14:45 Vancouver V Calgary

15:30 End

18:00 BC Cup Party http://www.facebook.com/events/212931985477200/

Ceili’s Dowtown (Smithe and Granville)

The Bayhawks require a Coach for season 2012. Preseason training started in early March and the season goes until September. It is a non-paid role as the club is a non for profit organisation.

The Bayhawks Football Club was established in 2009 due to the growth of football in Greater Vancouver and the great success of the North Delta Junior Australian Football League (NDJAFL). The team has a number of graduates from the NDJAFL, many of whom have represented Canada in the International Cup in Australia. The Bayhawks play in the British Columbia Australian Football League (BCAFL).  The Bayhawks were BCAFL premiers in 2010. The BCAFL is a social competition with local Canadians, Ex-pats Aussies and other Internationals.

Training is usually held once a week, with a game around every second week in summer. There is a 50/50 split on the field of Australians and Canadians/Internationals. We currently have skilled and experienced footballers, and players that are learning the game for the first time. You will be supported by a core group of senior players as well as the Board.

Skills and Experience Required:

• A history of leadership in Australian Rules in Australia
• In-depth knowledge of Australian Rules
• Previous coaching experience is an asset, but not a must
• Ability to coach to different skill levels
• A interest in developing football internationally
• Capacity to work with others to ensure a successful season
• Friendly and outgoing.

This position is ideal for experienced footballers moving to Vancouver who are looking to stay involved in Australian Rules, but might not necessarily want to play. We will be accepting sideline coaches and player/coaches.

If you are interested in this position please contact Evan Ozirny

bayhawksafc@gmail.com

+1 604 218 9661

Alternatively if you would like to play or assist the Bayhawks in any other ways please feel free to use the contact above.

This competition is open to all players and supporters of the league, and it’s easy to join. Just this link to join the BCAFL Footy Tips 2011 competition!