Embracing Australian Rules Football: A Journey from Passion to Purpose 🏉
Australian Rules Football—often called "the most exciting game you've never heard of"—is a sport I discovered after retiring from competitive soccer. ⚽ Although it's been played since the mid-1800s, it was entirely new to me. Yet, this incredible game has reignited the competitive spirit within me, pushing me to train harder than ever with a clear focus on making a positive impact both on and off the field. 💪
My journey in this sport has taken me through various clubs in the United States Australian Football League (USAFL), including the Baton Rouge Tigers, North Texas Devils, Houston Lonestars, and Sacramento Suns. I've even had the honor of representing the US on the international stage with the US Revolution. 🇺🇸
Now, I'm channeling my passion into something even greater—establishing the first Australian Rules Football club in the vibrant city of New Orleans: The Bayou Brawlers. 🐊 Together with a dedicated team, we're building this club from the ground up, focusing on grassroots development while maintaining top-tier training standards. 🌱🏆
We're in the process of securing our 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, with the goal of introducing this incredible sport to the New Orleans community, competing in the USAFL, and supporting ambitious players to reach the highest levels—whether it's the national team or opportunities abroad through player exchange programs in Australia. 🌏
If you have experience with the 501(c)(3) process or know someone who does, I’d greatly appreciate your guidance as we navigate this exciting chapter. 🙌
Follow our journey on Instagram: https://lnkd.in/eN76Jf-M 📱
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1moCongrats on your partnership with Bay FC, @21stAmendment! This is exciting news for the Bay Area and for women's professional soccer! ⚽ 🍻