The NFL has announced its first academy in the southern hemisphere will be opened on Australia's Gold Coast in September this year.

"We are excited to bring the NFL Academy program to Australia and the Asia-Pacific region – underlining the league's ambitions and commitment to grow the sport and the fan base

The NFL will expand its international search for talent by opening an academy in rugby-mad Australia to develop promising teenagers in the Asia-Pacific region into college and pro prospects. The NFL Academy will open in September for student athletes aged 12 to 18,

The NFL will play its first game in Brazil this September and that month will also see the league's push to expand its international footprint move forward in Australia.

The NFL will open an NFL Academy in Australia this year to service the Asia-Pacific region. The NFL will open an NFL Academy in Australia this year to service the Asia-Pacific region.

The NFL is interested in more young prospects from Australia, like Eagles tackle Jordan Mailata and 49ers punter Mitch Wishnowsky.

The NFL Academy is a major global initiative by the NFL offering talented student-athletes the opportunity to combine full-time education alongside intensive training in American football; Watch the N

While the NFL is at pains to say its not starting a talent war with Australian sporting codes, the establishment of an NFL Academy on the Gold Coast shows the leagues setting up camp in Australia is more than just a light touch public relations soiree.