DENVER BULLDOGS
AUSTRALIAN RULES FOOTBALL CLUB
WHO ARE THE DENVER BULLDOGS?
The Denver Bulldogs ARFC is one of the most decorated ‘Aussie Rules’ Football teams in the USAFL history with 10 Men's National Championships, and 6 Women's National Championships. The team consists of both American and Australian players, with a mix of skill levels from advanced to beginner.​
The players who make up the Bulldogs are a wide-ranging bunch, with a healthy mix of Australia ex-pats and Denver locals. From teenagers to fifty-year-olds; we have lawyers, engineers, marketing execs, electricians… people from all walks of life who are interested in learning a new sport, making some new friends, all in a healthy, competitive, environment.
BEING A BULLDOG
We are often asked how we have become so successful in the league, with many wondering how we can be such a dominant national champion. It’s not so much our recruitment strategy, nor is it that we are thought to be a fitter team due to the constant high-altitude training. We believe it all comes down to the Bulldogs culture.
​
The Bulldog's culture is very reflective of the age-old Australian cultural idiom of Mateship. At its core, Mateship is regarded as an Australian military virtue. For instance, the Australian Army Recruit Training Centre lists the “soldierly qualities” it seeks to instill as including “a will to win, dedication to duty, honor, compassion and honesty, mateship and teamwork, loyalty, and physical and moral courage.”
​
The similarities between this Australian value and the culture of the Bulldogs is strong. As Bulldogs, we believe we work harder than any other team in order to win, not so much for ourselves as individuals, but we do it for our mates on our team. We never get negative or down with each other; there is a uniqueness to the Bulldog's positivity and willingness to consistently encourage each other. And finally, we are known for our bravery. Willing to throw our heads over the footy and play the game with a certain fierceness that sends other teams running in the other direction.
​
So if you’re looking for a sport that offers more than a rec volleyball team can, you may have just found it.
OUR WOMEN'S TEAM
The Denver Lady Bulldogs formed in 2008 and within two years were USAFL National Champions. Coached by the infamous Bruce Durrell, the women have earned six USAFL national championships over the last decade and are looking forward to more future victories. Our strong team spirit, great leadership, and incredible athletes have made our team unbeatable in women’s footy.
​
​Many Lady Bulldogs have a background in soccer, rugby, basketball, American football, or gaelic (irish) football. Experience in any of these sports will make you a natural at Australian Rules Football. New players are always invited to join us at any training throughout the season. We’ll teach you everything you need to know. Come join us for a kick or a just a darn good workout.​
“My teammates are some of my best friends. We aren’t all ridiculously amazing athletes, we don’t all train every single day; we are just normal, everyday people who happen to enjoy the game. We also are lucky enough to be part of one of the most tight-knit clubs in the league and have the support of all of the men on the team, who watch our games, cheer for us, and encourage us to play our hardest.”
-Kylie Haun