September is upon us with week one of the 2024 AFL Ontario finals series set for the weekend. The Finals Series will take place across three weeks with teams being eliminated at the end of each week. The last two teams standing will contest the Grand Final on September 21st at the Humber South.
Ahead of every vital contest, we’ve broken down each clash.
Men’s Qualifying Final: Toronto Dingos vs Toronto Rebels
12:00 PM, Sat, Sep 7 – Humber College Australian Football Field
The Toronto Dingos face the Toronto Rebels in what is set to be a fiery battle for a direct ticket to the Grand Final. The Dingos, known for their physical style and aggressive ball movement, finished the regular season strong and will be looking to capitalize on their momentum. On the other side, the Rebels bring a mix of speed and tactical prowess, making them a dangerous opponent. Both teams will be hungry for the win, but only one can advance directly to the Grand Final, leaving the other to fight for their spot in the Preliminary Final.
Men’s Elimination Final: Toronto Eagles vs Ottawa Swans
2:00 PM, Sat, Sep 7 – Humber College Australian Football Field
In the elimination final, the Toronto Eagles take on the Ottawa Swans in a do-or-die matchup. The Eagles are a proud team with a strong finals pedigree, and after their final defeat of the Swans will be slight favourites. They’ll rely on their experienced midfield to dictate the pace of the game. The Swans, always known for their high-pressure approach, will look to stifle the Eagles’ attack and break forward with quick transitions. With the season on the line, this promises to be a hard-fought contest where the loser’s season ends and the winner lives to fight another day.
Women’s Semi Final 2: Etobicoke Kangaroos vs Hamilton Wildcats
10:00 AM, Sat, Sep 7 – Humber College Australian Football Field
In the women’s second semi-final, the Etobicoke Kangaroos, one of the top teams this season, will face off against the gritty Hamilton Wildcats. The Kangaroos, with their strong marking forwards and disciplined defense, are favorites to win, but the Wildcats, known for their relentless tackling and team cohesion, have the ability to cause an upset. The Kangaroos will be looking to stamp their authority early, while the Wildcats will try to wear them down with their high-pressure game. The winner moves on to the Grand Final, while the loser is eliminated.
Women’s Semi Final 1: Ottawa Swans vs High Park Demons
2:00 PM, Sat, Sep 7 – Manotick Polo Field
In a match in the Capital, the Ottawa Swans face the High Park Demons in the first women’s semi-final. The Swans, with their disciplined structure and patient build-up play, will be aiming to use their home-ground advantage to secure a spot in the final. Meanwhile, the Demons bring a fast, attacking style that could stretch the Swans’ defense. Both teams have strong midfields, and the battle for control in the center will be key. This game has all the makings of a classic, with everything on the line for both teams.
This weekend is sure to provide plenty of drama as teams fight for the ultimate prize—advancement to the Grand Final and the chance to be crowned AFL Ontario Premiers.
