I heard somewhere that the series was first sponsored by a Newspaper called the New York World. Thus, it became known as the "World" series. I don't know if this is true.

Jon Freeman, I agree that Aussie Rules is a great game to watch, and i find Union more entertaining to League.
Have you seen Gaelic Football, & if so what dis you think?
There's also a "hybrid" game between Gaelic & Aussie Rules. Three games are played each year so that the Gaelic & Aussie Rules players have a chance to compete internationally.