Media Credit: Amy Hoover/The LanternPlayers from the Columbus Jackaroos and the Cincinnati River Rats battle for a ball during a scrimmage.On a humid September afternoon, there is nothing better than a game of footy.
Australian rules football is a recent development in Central Ohio with the Jackaroos stationed in Columbus.
The Columbus Jackaroos faced off against the Ohio Valley River Rats Sept. 13 at Tuttle Park with the Jackaroos dominating their first home match, 82-28.
Members of the team come from across Columbus and several attend Ohio State. Chet Ridenour, coach of the Jackaroos, has a goal for the club next summer to start a local metro league, with a number of teams from the Columbus area.”This is bigger than a couple of guys playing backyard football,” Ridenour said.
From looks alone, the sport resembles a potpourri of soccer, basketball, rugby football and ultimate Frisbee. Players score through four goal posts set up at either end of a field measured 198 by 140 yards. They kick, toss, fumble, tackle and block at an exhausting pace.
With the Jackaroos, Ridenour found his niche, and thanks to veteran footy players, Australian rules enthusiasts, and Facebook, the team is up to 30 members and growing. His Jackaroos, slang for Australian cowboys, live by the motto, “fake it ’til you make it,” playing for the friendly competition and training for the next scrimmage.
Media Credit: Amy Hoover/The LanternPlayers from both teams huddle during a break in play.The Jackaroos are not afraid to be honest when talking about the brutality of the sport. But they also say it’s challenging and intricate.
“Aussie rules is the most skillful football code on earth,” said Brian Turpie, umpire and veteran player.
Players kick long passes, run miles every game and jump for most catches. Umpires protect players from severe injury and scuffles, but the mark, or the receiver of a catch, may not be so lucky.
“Unlike the NFL, here you can take the runner out,” Turpie said.But the team is about more than just the game. Players consider other teammates “true blues,” reliable as battle-field comrades. “It’s just a good time,” said Scott “Scooter” Matheson, an Australian native and recent OSU graduate. “The same guy you’re fighting with is the same guy you’re buying a beer for afterwards.”
The Jackaroos practice Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the Turf Fields or Beekman Park, and meet Thursday evening at Byrne’s Pub, a local Irish Tavern.
For more information, go to their Web site at www.columbusfooty.com.
Amy hoover can be reached at [email protected].
