Round 1 of the 2011 AFL season will celebrate the 20th anniversary of AFL football at AAMI Stadium when the Adelaide Crows take on the Hawks in a rematch of that first historic game.
The Crows debuted on the national stage in 1991 with an 86-point victory over Hawthorn in front of 44,902 football fans.
The rematch on March 26 will be the first of seven night matches scheduled at AAMI Stadium in 2011.
Port Adelaide and the Crows will clash in a thrilling Saturday night Showdown in Round 4.
The Power will then play some of its season’s most crucial matches under lights at AAMI, battling Hawthorn and Collingwood in Rounds 7 and 20 respectively.
The Crows are set to deliver some quality Saturday night action against St Kilda and Sydney in Rounds 6 and 15 respectively before taking on Essendon in a Friday night blockbuster in Round 17.
The Friday and Saturday night timeslots are perennial favourites among South Australian footy fans.
Chief Officer – Football & Corporate Operations, Darren Chandler, said the SANFL was pleased with the opportunities presented by the draw.
“The match program presents both clubs with some great opportunities in 2011. South Australians can look forward to 22 of the best sporting events this state can offer.
“Within the first five weeks, footy fans will be able to witness the launch of the Crows and Power premiership campaigns, watch the likes of Franklin, Ablett, Natanui and Pavlich compete on our home turf, experience the thrill of a Showdown and get the first glimpse of the AFL’s newest club when Port takes on the Gold Coast Suns.
“Later in the season, there are hugely-anticipated Friday night blockbusters for the Crows and Power, while the road to Finals sees top-tier teams Collingwood, Geelong and the Bulldogs test their mettle at AAMI.
“The footy experience will be further enhanced by a range of exciting initiatives at AAMI in the 2011 season.
Today’s match program release follows the launch of the NAB Cup fixture earlier this week, which delivered a brand new football experience for AAMI Stadium - three 40-minute matches featuring Adelaide, Port Adelaide and Melbourne on Friday, February 11.
To download your copy of the 2011 program, click below:
