Americans have got their sports fix through Essendon's clash with Fremantle at Marvel Stadium on Saturday.

With many sports in the USA postponed due to COVID-19, the Bombers' season-opening win was shown on Fox Sports 1. Essendon's Digital International membership allows fans to stream every game internationally via Watch AFL.

Former NFL punter Pat McAfee, who has 1.7 million followers on Twitter, was among those who flocked to social media to express his new-found love for Australian Football, and the Dons in particular.

"Basically, Aussie Rules football is the best thing that could've ever been made," McAfee tweeted.

"I can’t believe this is my first time watching a game. This is amazing.

"I’m not ready to declare my fandom just yet. I think that’s going to be a rather large decision for me... Still trying to figure what the hell’s going on first. Seems like Essendon is a DOMINANT force though."

The Bombers have moved quickly to sign up McAfee to the red and black family, arranging a 2020 guernsey with No.25 on the back (as requested by the Stringer-obsessed McAfee) to be sent to him.

He might be able to attend an Essendon game in the US in the future, too, with Bombers CEO Xavier Campbell announcing earlier this month that the club was in early discussions with GWS to stage a game in California for premiership points in 2022.

Campbell revealed AFL legend Kevin Sheedy – a pre-eminent figure at both Essendon and the Giants in recent years – was a driving force behind the concept. 

“Obviously having a foot in each camp at different points over the last few years at respective clubs, this concept is something ‘Sheeds’ has always been passionate about with regards to the untapped US market," Campbell said.

“Importantly, too, it would unlock the game of AFL, and the Bombers’ and GWS’ brands to California – the world’s fifth largest economy in its own right.

"While we don’t lose sight of our core business and the reason why we exist – to strive to win premierships – we need to continue to challenge the status quo, but not just for the sake of it."

The California discussions follow the Bombers' historic partnership with US brand Under Armour, which yesterday adorned the Essendon guernsey for the first time this season.

In October last year, the Bombers became the first AFL club to partner with Under Armour, signing a five-year deal with the Baltimore-based manufacturing heavyweights.

Bombers fans in the US who would like to watch future games can purchase a Digital International membership for $185 AUD (adult or junior).

Digital International membership benefits include:

• Watch every 2020 game live with Watch AFL, available on PC, tablet or smart phone
• On-demand full match replays
• AFL TV 24-hour channel
• Live breaking news, commentary and radio
• Enchanced stats on tablet

For any enquiries, please email membership@essendonfc.com.au.