LA's feline clash axed
10 November 2007 Herald Sun
Scott Gullan
AN EXHIBITION game in Los Angeles between Geelong and Richmond as part of next year's Australia Day celebrations has been cancelled because of a lack of funding.
The AFL and Tourism Victoria were keen to take Geelong and its premiership cup to LA as part of a week-long celebration in January.
However the exercise, which costs about $1 million, is believed to have fallen $100,000 short.
Major logistical problems at the UCLA venue were also a factor.
The AFL hosted a game there two years ago between Sydney and the Kangaroos.
A community camp and school promotions were also planned.
AFL game development manager David Matthews confirmed yesterday the league would now look elsewhere next year.
"There were funding and logistical issues and it was decided to look for better opportunities down the track," Matthews said.
"The problem with the UCLA ground is you have to set it up from scratch, so there are major logistical issues. Plus, there is also some concern with the surface."
The AFL will play the opening game of the NAB Cup between Collingwood and Adelaide in Dubai next year. A game in South Africa is also planned.
And a return to London is also on the agenda next year. The regular October match did not happen this year, but the league is searching for expressions of interest for 2008.
While some clubs believe the exhibition game affects their season preparations, grand finalists Geelong and Port Adelaide played off at The Oval in London last year.
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