Beitzel thrilled at decision to resume series

HARRY BEITZEL, the main inspiration behind the establishment of contact between Australian Rules and Gaelic Football in the mid-sixties which led ultimately to the International Rules Series, has given his wholehearted support to the decision to resume the tours in the autumn.

“The news had been embraced and welcomed by the people who had the faith and the belief that the series was vital to the continued growth of both games,” he said.

“The diligent behind-the-scenes meetings, the shared goodwill, the hard work and the common sense negotiations have again paid off. We are back to the future.”

However, he pointed out that the news “hardly caused a ripple of interest” in Australia — for the obvious reason that the AFL season is in full flow, roughly at the half-way stage.

Beitzel first came into contact with Gaelic football when he saw a telecast of an All-Ireland final while visiting London. He got a team together in Australia and they travelled over to Ireland in 1967. Known as the Galahs, the starting point was a game against then All-Ireland champions Meath.

Calling for support for the players and fans from both countries who have embraced the compromise game, he says that the “continued stop-start, on-again-off again” mentality must end.

“We must allow the natural development of a blending of two of the greatest and oldest football codes,” he said.

While the announcement from the GAA caught the AFL off guard (they were aiming towards a joint media conference), Beitzel referred to the suggestions that a neutral referee (which he presumes would be a soccer referee) could be brought in.

It’s something he would be totally opposed to, he pointed out.

“I’ve previously expressed my views on this. I believe it would be an insult to the integrity and impartiality of the top Gaelic and AFL referees.

“They, like the players, have earned the right to also represent their countries at the international level.”

Overall, Beitzel is upbeat about the upcoming games attracting the same level of interest as in previous tours. “There is no doubt in my mind that, come late October, the AFL and the huge Irish/Australian heritage supporters will again vote with their feet and the sold-out sign will be displayed wherever the two games are played.”