Dianella Represented at AFL International Cup
02 Aug, 2011
DIANELLA Morley midfielder Paul Barry has earned a late call-up to the Great Britain squad for the 2011 AFL International Cup.
Barry, 37, converted from soccer to Australian Rules Football in 2008, playing in the AFL London league before migrating to Perth and joining Dianella Morley in May 2010.
He’s known as a hard-working winger and on-baller for Dianella, playing the majority of his football in the E3 Division but also earning selection in the C3 Reserves.
Dianella Morley President Chris Chadd says the club’s wrapt at Paul’s selection.
“This is a first for our club, we’re extremely proud and wish Paul all the best.” He said
It’s not only great for the game, it’s also great for us as it acknowledges how diverse, welcoming and multi-cultural we are.”
The carnival, to be held in Sydney and Melbourne throughout August, sees 18 countries compete in the nearest thing Australian football has to a World Cup. The Grand Final on August 27 will be held at the MCG as a curtain-raiser to the Hawthorn v Western Bulldogs AFL clash.
Barry, who has played two Tests for Great Britain, was initially named as an emergency but was called into the 26-man squad because of injuries.
The Raiders have 2 games left in the C3 and E3 divisions but won’t figure in September action. The C3 Reserves will battle over 2nd spot with Swan Valley at Light Street on Saturday.
