History of the Club
in 1998 a group of Australians sought out to capture a taste of home in Orange County, CA, thus the Orange County Bombers Australian Rules Football Club was born! What started as a casual club for both Australians and Americans quickly grew, becoming a competitive force in the USAFL. Over the next two decades, the team proudly wore red and black, capturing the 2002 Division 2 National Championship and reaching the Division 1 Grand Finals in 2014 and 2015.
In 2019, a new chapter began for the club with an exciting partnership with the GWS Giants, a professional AFL team based in Sydney. This collaboration marked the birth of the Orange County Giants, and with it, a new era of growth and success. Wearing the iconic orange jersey, the OC Giants continued to build on their legacy.
By 2021, the club expanded, introducing a women’s team that competes in both regional and national tournaments. The men’s team also thrived, winning a Division 2 Regionals title and securing third place at Nationals. the club's growth continued by hosting the first all-women’s tournament in 2023, furthering their mission to grow the sport both locally and nationally.
Today, the OC Giants remain a vibrant, social club committed to fostering both athletic and community development, on and off the field. Whether you're looking to compete, make new friends, or learn a new sport, the OC Giants welcome all. Join the movement, and be part of the journey!
JACK BUTLER - PRESIDENT
Jack is an American who joined Orange County AFC in 2018 playing some of his first games with the Bombers in the tundra of Racine, WI during the USAFL Nationals tournament. Having an American football background, he quickly found love for Aussie Rules with its physical and competitive nature. Jack has played almost every position on the field, except for those titled “forward” - a natural defenseman. What Jack likes best about the club is the camaraderie within the team both on and off the field. “What really sold it for me is the enthusiasm of the Australian team members. I had never heard of Aussie Rules Football prior to joining the club but it didn’t matter. They are genuinely excited to share their sport, and a pint, to any who are interested. Wish we had the sport here [USA] growing up.” Jack encourages anyone interested to play and join the club.
JOHN CASE - COACH
John is an American who lived in Australia and learned and played in QAFL (Queensland Australian Football League), playing for the Mt. Gravatt Vultures and Springwood Pumas. In 2013 he joined Orange County to compete in the USAFL and has played each position from the forward line to ruck and even in the defensive half. When asked about how the sport was in Australian compared to the USAFL he responded "It truly is amazing how competitive this league is and would most certainly give any of the club in Australia a run for their money. To be able to continue playing the sport l loved and in the US is truly exciting. I definitely enjoy everything about the club and what it has to offer on and off the field" John recommends to anyone looking for a new sport and some great friends, footy and the OC Giants is the way to do it.