Edmonton, Canada, is set to host the 2024 World Junior American Football Championships, an event anticipated to bring excitement and international attention to the city. Earlier this year, a press conference was held to announce the significance and preparation behind this global sporting event.
The International American Football Federation
Founded in 2009, the IFAF has been instrumental in organizing international American football events. The World Junior Championship, first held in Canton, Ohio, has grown significantly over the years, with subsequent championships taking place in Texas, Kuwait City, Harbin, China, and Mexico City.
Originally planned for 2020 in Ohio, the next tournament had to be postponed twice due to the pandemic. However, Football Canada worked diligently to secure the bid and is eager to showcase the event. Collaboration between partners, the city, and the IFAF has been crucial to the event's organization.
Tim Enger, Executive Director of Football Alberta, provided a historical context, noting that while football typically does not emphasize international play, the International American Football Federation (IFAF) has been striving to change that since its formation.
The upcoming international football tournament will feature champions from all continents, welcoming teams from the US, Japan, Austria, Australia, Panama, and Brazil. The quarter-finals are scheduled for June 22nd at Clark and Commonwealth stadiums.
Edmonton: A Thriving Destination for International Events
Councillor Tim Cartmell delivered remarks on behalf of the City of Edmonton, lauding the organizers for selecting Edmonton as the host city. Cartmell highlighted Edmonton’s history of successfully hosting significant events and its readiness to welcome athletes and visitors from around the world.
Andy Fuller, Managing Director of IFAF, joined the press conference virtually from London. He praised the collaboration with Football Canada and local stakeholders, expressing confidence in Edmonton’s ability to deliver a world-class tournament. Fuller emphasized the championship’s role in providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents and potentially launch professional careers in leagues such as the CFL and NFL.
Rick LeLacheur, interim President and CEO of the Edmonton Elks, expressed his organization’s commitment to supporting the event. He noted the growing global interest in gridiron football and the potential for players participating in the championships to join the CFL.
Edmonton is known for its successful track record in hosting global events, contributing significantly to the local economy by attracting international participants and attendees.
Event Schedule and Ticketing
The 2024 World Junior American Football Championships will follow a knockout format, with games held at both Commonwealth Stadium and Clarke Stadium. The quarter-finals will kick off on June 22, featuring matchups such as Canada 2 vs. Austria and USA vs. Panama. The semi-finals and finals will be held on June 26 and June 30, respectively.
Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, with options including single-game tickets, a Canada pass, and a tournament pass. The tournament pass ensures access to all games, reflecting the high demand and limited capacity of some venues.
In addition to the sporting events, multicultural festivals and associations will be organized, enriching the cultural experience for attendees.
The U20 IFAF World Junior Championships is set to be a landmark occasion, promoting football on an international scale and fostering global sportsmanship. With strong support from local and international partners, this event is poised to leave a lasting impact on the global sports landscape.