Akermanis, a name well-known to GAA fans, will be remembered for his intense rivalry with Tyrone’s Peter Canavan during the 2000 series at Croke Park.
Next March, Akermanis will return to Ireland in a new role as both a coach and player for the over-40s, with matches scheduled at Mullagh GAA club in Galway on March 9 and Denn, Co Cavan on March 16.
Plans are underway for tests in men’s over-40s, women’s over-40s, and men’s over-50s, reviving the International Rules concept that has been dormant since 2017 when Ireland suffered defeats in both test matches in Australia.
However, the involvement of Akermanis is unlikely to spur a proper revival of the series, as GAA president Larry McCarthy previously stated that the congested split-season calendar prevents the return of the International Rules any time soon.
Despite this, the presence of Akermanis is sure to evoke memories of the intense history of the hybrid game, particularly his infamous clash with Red Hand icon Peter Canavan.
In a Facebook post, the AFL Masters Australian team announced the appointment of Jason Akermanis as the head coach for the upcoming tour and International Rules series in Ireland. Akermanis, who played 325 AFL games and achieved numerous accolades, including three Premierships and the 2001 Brownlow Medallist, will also be playing and coaching the Australian Men’s 40s team.
Lisa Ropere has been confirmed as the coach for the inaugural Australian women’s Masters team. The AFL Masters Australian team expressed excitement over the appointments of Akermanis and Ropere, highlighting their crucial roles in shaping tour preparations and selecting assistant coaches and support staff within the next 14 days.
Looking back on their history with the hybrid game, Peter Canavan shared his mixed experiences and memories of his final series in 2000, which ended with him and Akermanis being sent off and subsequently suspended. Despite the altercation, Canavan admitted to cherishing his time in the game and acknowledged Akermanis’ skills and successful career in the AFL.
As for the possibility of a reunion next March, Canavan’s plans have yet to be clarified.
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