Explanation of the American/Australian Rule

Below is an explanation of the rule adopted at the Annual AGM regarding the American / Australian Rule. The rule requires that no more than 50% of a teams players on the field at one time can be Australian. Conversely, at least 50% of players on the field at a time must be Non-Australian. Any questions regarding a player's status should be resolved with the USAFL Board prior to registration at the National Tournament. The determination of whether a player is Australian or Non-Australian is determined by the following criteria:

A player is an Australian if:
1. The player has Australian Citizenship. (Even players with dual American/Australian citizenship (or other) will be deemed Australian).
or
2. The player has lived in Australia and played footy in Australia between the ages of 10-18 years.
Note: A player does not have to meet both of these requirements to be deemed an Australian. Meeting either requirement makes a player an Australian.

A player is a Non-Australian if:
1. The player does not have Australian Citizenship.
and
2. The player has not lived in Australia and played footy in Australia between the ages of 10-18 years.
Note: A player must meet both of these criteria in order to be deemed a Non-Australian.

Failure to meet either criteria results in a player being deemed an Australian for purposes of the 50/50 Rule.

- USAFL Board
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