Minister for Sport Mark Arbib today wished Australia’s Polocrosse team every success as they leave for the 2011 World Cup in the United Kingdom tomorrow.

Australia will seek to defend its title as the number one Polocrosse country in the world in this uniquely Australian sport.

'Australia has a tremendous history in the sport of Polocrosse. The sports was created in Australia in 1938 and is one of only three Australian-made sports along with Aussie rules and camp drafting,' Senator Arbib said.

'The Australian team won both previous World Cups in 2003 and 2007 and I’m sure they’ll perform very well. We wish them great success.

'This is the first time the World Cup will be played outside Australia, with both previous events held in Warwick, Queensland.

'Eight countries are competing in the World Cup: Australia, United Kingdom, USA, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Ireland, New Zealand and Zambia.'

The Australian team is Cameron Shepherd (Captain), Will and Sandra Weston, Lance Anderson, Alison Mathie, Jodi Tiver, Robert Sibley and Jess Jolly.

The team is coached by Ross Shepherd from Queensland, who successfully coached the Australian winning teams for both previous World Cups.

The teams leave Australia on Thursday and games will be staged at Onley Equestrian Grounds, Rugby Warwickshire from 8-17 July.

The Australian Government is a strong supporter of Polocrosse, providing more than $120,000 in annual funding to support the development of the sport at both the elite and grassroots level.

'The Government invests $60,000 a year to the national team to achieve sustained international success for our elite Polocrosse players and $60,000 in annual participation funding to ensure we have young people playing the sport,' Senator Arbib said.

'The 2010 Exercise, Recreation and Sport Survey shows participation in Polocrosse in the top 10 in regular physical activities with more than 50,000 Australians over the age of 15 participating in Polocrosse and other horse riding and equestrian activities.'