Playing Aussie Rules since 1993, the game in Sweden has grown to around 400 players and a junior development program. With a newly formed governing body, AFL Sweden, the Swedish national team - the Elks - has a strong rivalry with Denmark and will be heading downunder for the first time in 2008 to contest the International Cup.
Harry O'Brien has the distinction of being the first Brazilian-born player in the AFL. The tall Afro-Brazilian was drafted from Western Australia as a rookie to the Collingwood Magpies. Following some briliant form as a tough defender he cracked into the senior list in 2007 where he continues to impress.