The AFL has announced a “landmark State of Origin match” to raise funds for the Australian bushfire disaster in addition to a donation to support relief efforts.
According to the league:
Victoria will play an All Stars line-up on Friday February 28, with money raised to boost a Community Relief Fund set-up by the AFL to help rebuild football facilities ripped apart by the national crisis.
Richmond premiership coach Damien Hardwick will lead the Victorians and Sydney counterpart John Longmire will coach the All Stars in the match to be staged at Marvel Stadium.
The AFL ($1.35m) – in association with the clubs ($900,000) and AFL Players Association ($250,000) – have committed a $2.5million donation.
A total of $1m will provide immediate emergency assistance through the Australian Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery fund. An additional $1.5m will kickstart the Community Relief Fund for grassroots facilities.
The match – to be played during the second weekend of the pre-season Marsh Community Series – will see players selected in a process still to be determined.
There will be a maximum of three players per AFL club eligible to take part in the match to ensure minimal disruption to club’s pre-season plans just 20 days before round one.
JUST IN: AFL confirms State of Origin match and makes massive donation for bushfire relief.
— AFL.com.au (@AFLcomau) January 9, 2020
https://t.co/ZRqcKD4tMa
