Sydney Swans coach John Longmire has given a glowing endorsement to the AFLX concept under one month away from the inaugural tournament taking place.
The Swans will host five other clubs during the tournament to be hosted at Allianz Stadium in Sydney on February 17.
The Lions, Giants, Suns, Bulldogs and Tigers will take to the Moore Park precinct for the shortened format of AFL with festivities kicking off from 4.10pm.
Longmire endorsed the tournament saying it was a perfect opportunity to introduce a new audience to the game.
“It is a great concept for junior clubs, senior clubs or people who just want a taste of the sport but aren’t too sure about it to come and have a look at,” he said.
“There is no doubt it will be an athletic game, it will be a fast game and it will probably be a high scoring game as well.
“It is a great concept to be able to be involved in particularly in the Northern markets, it becomes another sample choice that people have got to be able to experience the game.”
Longmire is confident most clubs will be able to adapt to the different format of AFL.
“Whether it is seven a side, nine a side or ten a side those sorts of games are played quiet regularly at AFL clubs now so it is not a complete shock.”
“There are a couple of rules specifics that it might take a while getting used to during the game but in essence it is what you do anyway during training sessions in preparation for the season.”
“It won’t be an unfamiliar concept for most clubs.”