This page has been created as a Tournament FAQ for players and officials participating in the 2024 World 9s in Melbourne.
Please remember the day is all about having fun! The cake is the enjoyment of playing footy with your mates and having a great time. Winning is just the cream on top. Focus on the cake and enjoy the day!
What is the date of the World 9s?
Saturday 3 February, 2024
Where is the venue?
Box Hill Rugby Union Football Club, Cnr. Middleborough & Canterbury Roads, Box Hill
Who are the competing teams?
Division 1 Men – Cook Islands, Italy, Nauru, Samoa, South Sudan, United Nations
Division 2 Men – Chile, Nauru, Switzerland, Wales
Women’s Division – Australia, Fiji, Nauru, Samoa, South Sudan, United Nations
Where can I find the fixture?
The 2024 fixture can be found here – www.aflinternational.com/world9s/fixture
What are the playing rules?
The playing rules for the World 9s can be found at www.aflinternational.com/world9s/match-rules
Please take the time to read them and understand them, it will make your day much more enjoyable!
Is there parking?
Yes, there is plenty of parking available.
What about public transport?
Train – the closest train stop is Laburnum, on the Belgrave/Lilydale line. However, it’s a good 15 minute walk to the ground from the train station.
Bus – both the 733 and 765 stop right next to the ground.
What do I need to bring?
There is no grandstand at the venue, and only a few benches to sit on. As a result, we suggest you bring your own folding camping chair to sit on during the day. Please also bring a hat and sunscreen.
There is also a large embankment overlooking Field 1. This is a great space on which to sit and watch the footy when you are not playing, so please bring a blanket if you would prefer not to sit on the grass.
I’m Bringing 3, including Me!
As you know, it is going to be a much better experience if we play in front of a great crowd at the World 9s! We are asking each player and official to bring not only yourself, but 2 other people to the 9s. They can be your parents, partner, kids, mates etc. Remember, it’s free entry to the event as well. Thanks very much, we appreciate your help in making sure we have a great crowd (and great atmosphere) on the day!
Team Marquees
As per last year, please ensure your team brings a team marquee. They are highly recommended as they will provide much needed shade.
Regarding the size, you can bring a 3m x 3m, or you can bring two of these, or you can bring a 6m by 3m, for example. The size of the marquee is up to you.
Please remember that, due to Council requirements, marquees can’t be secured just via rope and peg, they need to be weighted down as well.
What is the weather forecast?
As the World 9s approaches, you can keep an eye on the weather here.
Is there food & drink on sale?
Yes, the Box Hill Rugby Club will be selling food & drinks. The club has bent over backwards to support the event, so please support them throughout the day.
What can I not bring?
Please do not bring any alcohol. The Box Hill Rugby Club has a liquor license and you can purchase drinks from the bar during the day.
Hashtags
If you are taking photos and posting on Instagram on the day, it would be great if you could include the hashtags #aflinternational and #world9s. Thank you!
What do I do after my last match?
There will be 3 great grand finals to watch on Field 1, and you can purchase a cold beer from the bar and watch some great footy. Let’s create a great atmosphere for the teams in the finals.