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The Ottawa Swans Australian Football Club is a not-for-profit volunteer organization formed by a group of Aussie enthusiasts and expats in late 2006. In 2007, the Swans player and membership base grew through a series of exhibition games and heavy promotion of the sport in the Ottawa environs.
In 2008, with coach Richard Keane and captain Steve Spurrell leading the team, the Ottawa Swans entered the Ontario Australian Football League (OAFL). The Swans played their first official game in the OAFL against the Etobicoke Kangaroos on May 10th. The Swans did not register a win in their first season, but built a strong base for future years.
Off the field, the organization has pushed forward to build a club structure that requires players to train and play without the onerous requirements of operating the club itself. Its initial Commission members were: Steve Spurrell, Treasurer Alp Oran, Richard Keane, Seth Potter, and the President, Ray Kaduck. The 2009 Commission includes President Ray Kaduck, Secretary Jay Thompson, Treasurer Andrew Milne, Rob Garnett and Rob Paradis. This strategic planning group includes expertise in law, accounting, sports development and management, as well as experience in building sports and cultural organizations. It is supported by 9 Vice-Presidents, who are responsible for day-to-day operations of the club.
On the field in 2009, the Club is run by Coach Corey Bowen, Vice-President Football Operations Pat Kenny, Assistant Coach Chris McLean and Team Manager Tammy Bowen. Luke Walsh succeeds Steve Spurrell as Captain.
Youth development is a strong focus for the Swans in season 2009 and beyond. Nic Desson, as Vice-President Football Development, is responsible for building a junior organization that will provide training to the Swans of tomorrow.
In 2009, the Quebec Saints are Ottawa’s Division 1 affiliate, and will provide players each game to the Ottawa Swans, building the skills of its core players and facilitating the Montreal-based team’s entry to the OAFL. An Ottawa-based Division 1 team is under development to compete as early as 2010.
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