After a wet and wild Round 1, with a better forecast and a game under each team's belt, expect plenty of exhilarating contests in this week's A-Grade action!

Bacchus Marsh will host North Ballarat in what shapes as one of the standout clashes of Round 2.

Bacchus Marsh come into the contest full of confidence after back-to-back wins in Round 0 and Round 1, showing strong form and cohesion across the court.

However, they will be looking to turn the tables on North Ballarat, who had the upper hand in 2025, winning both encounters between the two sides.

North Ballarat also enter the match in impressive form, having secured a comfortable win over Ballarat in their opening game of the season.

With a talented and well-balanced lineup, they will be eager to continue their strong start and reinforce themselves as a serious contender in 2026.

Bacchus Marsh’s attacking end will be led by Kimberly Philipps and Jasmine Paama, whose combination has been a key factor in their early success.

Through the midcourt, Melissa Prismall and Eliza Moodie will be crucial in linking defence to attack, while Ella Logan adds defensive pressure.

In the back third, Caitlin Hendricksen and Avana Hobson will have an important role in limiting North Ballarat’s scoring opportunities.

North Ballarat boasts a dynamic attacking duo in Maddy Selmon and Poppy Douglass, supported by strong midcourt connection from Georgia Bodey and Kelsie Rainbow.

Defensively, Brydi Hutchinson, Milly Simpson and Maggie Smith will look to disrupt Bacchus Marsh’s flow and create turnover opportunities.

With both sides in strong early-season form, this matchup promises to be a high-quality contest.

Bacchus Marsh will be determined to break their recent run against North Ballarat, while the visitors will be equally motivated to maintain their dominance and continue their winning start to the season.

Expect a fast-paced and fiercely contested game at Maddingley Park.

Bacchus Marsh

GS - Kimberly Philipps

GA - Jasmine Paama

WA - Melissa Prismall

C - Eliza Moodie

WD - Ella Logan

GD - Caitlin Hendricksen

GK - Avana Hobson

SUB - Lauren Shankland

SUB - Remy Day

North Ballarat

GS: Maddy Selmon

GA: Poppy Douglass

WA: Georgia Bodey

C: Kelsie Rainbow

WD: Brydi Hutchinson

GD: Milly Simpson

GK: Maggie Smith

Sub: Maddie Fitzpatrick

Sub: Lilly Francis

Sub: Amy Wirth

Ballarat take on Sebastopol in Round 2, with both sides showcasing new-look lineups in 2026 and eager to make their mark early in the season.

Sebastopol come into the clash full of confidence after a comfortable Round 1 victory and will be looking to build on that momentum.

Having also held the upper hand over Ballarat in both encounters last season, they’ll be keen to continue that strong run.

Ballarat, meanwhile, faced a tough opening match against North Ballarat and will be determined to respond.

With fresh faces across the court, they’ll be focused on building connection and cohesion, while demonstrating the potential within their lineup.

Ballarat’s shooting combination of Ava Richardson and Fionnuala McKeagney-Stubbs will be key to converting opportunities, with Ella Shannon and Xara Burge working hard through the midcourt to create attacking flow.

Defensively, Abbie O’Brien, Eliza Burge and Jacinta McKenzie will need to apply consistent pressure to slow Sebastopol’s scoring.

Sebastopol boast a strong and settled lineup, with Adut Manyiel and Laura Bell leading the way in attack.

Hannah Atkinson and Tahlia Watts will look to control the tempo through the midcourt, while Nikki Allen adds defensive pressure.

In the back third, Jami Luhrs and Alice Kain will aim to disrupt Ballarat’s attacking connections and generate turnover ball.

With Sebastopol riding early momentum and Ballarat eager to respond after Round 1, this matchup presents an intriguing contest.

Can Ballarat find their rhythm, or will Sebastopol continue their strong start to the season?

Ballarat

GS      Ava Richardson

GA      Fionnuala McKeagney-Stubbs

WA     Ella Shannon

C         Xara Burge

WD    Abbie O'Brien

GD       Eliza Burge

GK      Jacinta McKenzie

SUB    Famke Mccallum

SUB    Sam Bakes

Sebastopol

GS - Adut Manyiel 

GA - Laura Bell 

WA - Hannah Atkinson 

C - Tahlia Watts 

WD - Nikki Allen 

GD - Jami Luhrs 

GK - Alice Kain 

SUB - Makayla Wright 

SUB - Taylor Finch 

SUB - Sienna Muir 

Redan and Sunbury will both be hungry for a response in Round 2, with each side coming off a loss in their opening matches of the 2026 season.

Sunbury receive a timely boost with several players returning after competing at Netball Nationals last weekend.

Their inclusion adds depth, experience and composure to an already talented lineup, and they will be eager to bounce back strongly.

Redan, however, will be just as determined to make a statement.

With an impressive and well-rounded squad, they will be looking to go toe-to-toe with Sunbury and prove they can match it with one of the competition’s benchmark sides.

After dropping both encounters to Sunbury in 2025, Redan have added motivation to shift the narrative this season.

In attack, Redan will rely on the combination of Eva Manserra and Stella Kane, with Stacey Matthews and Grace Manserra driving the ball through the midcourt.

Defensively, Caitlin Farr, Sienna Manserra and Erin Riley will play a crucial role in applying pressure and generating turnovers.

Sunbury’s shooting duo of Caitlin Hill and Lani Fauonuku provides a strong presence in the circle, supported by Georgia Hellyer and Tayla Honey through the midcourt.

Defensively, Sarah Croft, Eliza Gollant and Elly Randall will be key in restricting Redan’s scoring opportunities, while their returning players add further strength and versatility to the lineup.

With both teams eager to get their first win on the board, expect a hard-fought and competitive contest.

Will Redan turn the tables on recent history, or can Sunbury bounce back with a strengthened lineup?

Redan

GS Eva Manserra

GA Stella Kane 

WA Stacey Matthews 

C Grace Manserra

WD Caitlin Farr

GD Sienna Manserra

GK Erin Riley 

Sub Ashlee Smith

Sub Cassandra Peace

Sub Kirsten Andrich 

Sunbury

GS Caitlin Hill 

GA Lani Fauonuku 

WA Georgia Hellyer 

C Tayla Honey 

WD Sarah Croft 

GD Eliza Gollant 

GK Elly Randall 

Sub Charlize Bellette 

Sub Abigail Inglis 

East Point face a tough challenge in Round 2 as they come up against reigning premiers Darley in a must-watch clash.

It hasn’t been the start East Point were hoping for, dropping their opening two matches of the season.

However, they will be determined to respond this week, focusing on building connection across the court and finding consistency within their dynamic lineup.

With plenty of talent at their disposal, this shapes as an opportunity to reset and gain momentum.

Darley, on the other hand, have picked up right where they left off in 2025.

The reigning premiers opened their 2026 campaign with a comfortable win over Sunbury and will be looking to maintain that momentum.

Having defeated East Point in both meetings last season, they will take confidence into this matchup.

East Point’s attacking end will see Keele Hillas and Jeremi Robinson combine in the goal circle, while Bridey McElligott and Rhiannon White will be key in driving the ball through the midcourt.

Defensively, Isabella Stevens, Sarah Augustine and Stella Geljon will need to apply strong pressure to disrupt Darley’s slick ball movement.

Darley’s strength lies in their balance across the court.

Sarah Crowley and Akira McCormack form a potent shooting combination, with Lucy Taylor and Montana Holmes providing class and control through the midcourt.

Defensively, Jaimee Smith, Anna Lawley and Matilda Elliot will look to create turnovers and limit East Point’s scoring opportunities.

East Point will be eager to turn the tide after two early losses and last year’s results against Darley, but they’ll need to be at their very best to challenge a side that continues to set the benchmark.

Can East Point respond, or will Darley continue their dominant run?

East Point

GS Keele Hillas 

GA Jeremi Robinson

WA Bridey McElligott

C Rhiannon White 

WD Isabella Stevens 

GD Sarah Augustine 

GK Stella Geljon 

SUB Lily McGuinness 

SUB Abby Kinnersly 

SUB Tess Geljon 

Darley

GS – Sarah Crowley

GA – Akira McCormack

WA – Lucy Taylor

C – Montana Holmes

WD – Jaimee Smith

GD – Anna Lawley

GK – Matilda Elliot

SUB – Ava Densley

SUB – Ellie Martin

Lake Wendouree will look to continue their strong start to the 2026 season when they host Melton in Round 2, with both sides bringing contrasting momentum into the contest.

Lake Wendouree opened their season in dominant fashion, recording a very comfortable win and immediately stamping themselves as a side to watch early in 2026.

Confidence is high, and with a settled group across the court, they will be keen to build on that momentum.

Their recent history against Melton also works in their favour, having taken the points in both meetings in 2025.

Melton, however, return with a significantly strengthened lineup this week, with all players available and a clear hunger to respond after their opening round.

Expect a far more settled and competitive outfit as they look to test one of the competition’s in-form sides.

For Lake Wendouree, their attacking end will once again be led by Addison Funcke and Ebony Porter, who will look to capitalise on strong midcourt drive from Bella Clark and Sadie Cheesman.

In defence, Rosie Todd and Remi Hooper will be key in shutting down entries, with Kate Drew anchoring the goal circle and providing stability under pressure.

Melton’s goal circle will feature the dangerous combination of Hayley Masinalupe and Tiarna Lloyd, supported by Emily Jelesic and Amelia Cini through the midcourt, who will be responsible for controlling tempo and transition.

Defensively, Kiara Boyd and Felecia Resture will be tasked with disrupting Lake Wendouree’s flow, with Nadia Tupou providing a strong presence at goalkeeper.

With Lake Wendouree building momentum and Melton fielding a full-strength lineup for the first time this season, this shapes as a genuine test for both sides.

Can Lake Wendouree continue their early-season dominance, or will Melton’s strengthened lineup swing the momentum their way?

Lake Wendouree

GS Addison Funcke

GA   Ebony Porter

WA Bella Clark

C Sadie Cheesman

WD Rosie Todd

GD  Remi Hooper

GK Kate Drew

SUB Demi Thompson

SUB Emma Hawker

SUB Audrey Daomaille

Melton

GS Hayley Masinalupe

GA Tiarnah Lloyd

WA Emily Jelesic

C Amelia Cini

WD Kiara Boyd

GD Felecia Resture

GK Nadia Tupou

Sub Narena Barker

Our BFNL Netball Representative/Pathway Program will be going ahead for 2021. This is a junior program for 13s, 15s and 17s age groups.

Nominations are open now and if you are interested in being a part of the junior representative program for 2021 in the 13s, 15s or 17s age group, please fill out the Player Nomination Form (form link below) and return by email by the following dates:

Nomination forms for 17s to be emailed by: COB on 16^th of February

Nomination forms for 15s and 13s to be emailed by: COB Tuesday the 23^rdof February

You will need to email player nomination forms back to the Netball Manager:

Gemma Murphy at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The 17s age group tryouts will be held at the Lake Wendouree Netball Courts on the following dates:

Thursday the 18^th of Feb: 4.30pm – 5.30pm

Tuesday the 23^rd of Feb: 4.30pm – 5.30pm

Thursday the 25^th of Feb: 4.30pm – 5.30pm

North Ballarat Junior Football and Netball Club, together with East Point Junior Football and Netball Club will host the annual ‘Pink Round’ on Sunday 16 July 2023 at Mars stadium.

This year marks the second year the clubs have come together to raise awareness of cancer and raise funds for the Ballarat Regional Integrated Cancer Centre and Breast Cancer Network Australia.

The initiative started after Junior Netball Co-ordinators for North, Rachael Murnane and East, Jodie Hodge were both experiencing breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The Pink Round will see more than 300 North junior netballers and footballers (both girls and boys football teams) wear pink Breast Cancer Network Australia socks.

The girls football program is also hosting a dinner, with a guest speaker to talk about the cancer journey and importantly how young people can support their friends and loved ones who might be experiencing cancer.

“We are really proud of the Pink Round and raising awareness of the importance of regular health checks and scans," said North Ballarat Junior Netball Co-ordinator Rachael Murnane.

"The sad reality is that so many of us are touched by cancer. Early detection is critical and if we can help to encourage people to book a check-up, then it’s been a success.

“We invite the community to come along to North to support not only the teams competing on the day, but to show support for everyone in our community who has been affected by cancer.

"We are selling raffle tickets and hosting a BBQ and a lolly stand will be set up at North netball courts from 8am till 3pm.

“We hope that everyone will come together, pink up and get behind the teams as they play for a great cause.

“Our North community has been extraordinary with every one of our junior teams being sponsored by local businesses and families for the cost of the Breast Cancer Network Australia socks.

“We’d like to thank our major sponsors Nicholson Construction, Bakers Delight and The Butchers Club.”

Find the full junior fixture for football and netball for start times and venues.

A quick-fire update on all the netball news from the BFNL, this first edition of Quick Shots includes a big boost to BFNL umpire development thanks to Netball Victoria, an update on the representative Pathway Program, and information on membership and coaching accreditation.

Umpire Development Opportunity

The league has been successful in obtaining a significant grant from Netball Victoria to boost umpire development.

In coming weeks, the league will provide more information about the 2021 BFNL Umpire Development Program, which will facilitate focused one-on-one mentoring for club umpires who aim to achieve their National C or B Grade badge. The umpire development program is a great initiative. It will assist in growing the numbers in our umpiring pool and improving our club umpires' skill level. 

Information about the program and Expressions of Interest forms will be sent to club coordinators, or you can email BFNL Netball Manager Gemma Murphy at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for an Expression of Interest form. 

Places on this program will be limited, so be sure to submit your interest quickly. 

Representative Pathway Program

One of the league's focus areas has been preparations for the 2021 representative Pathway Program (formally known as Interleague). 

We would like to announce our Representative/Pathway Coaches for 2021: 

17 & Under Coaches are – Deb Hutchinson, Damien Mullane and Prue Douglass

15 & Under Coach – Katie Williams

13 & Under Coaches – Courtney Mclean and Kara Hart

Try Out Dates for the 13 & Under and 15 & Under Representative Teams

The 13 & Under tryout will take place on Wednesday the 24^th of February from 4.30pm to 5.30pm. This tryout will be at Lake Wendouree Netball Court.

The 15 & Under tryouts will take place on the 4^th and 11^th of March from 4.30pm to 5.30pm. Both tryouts will be held at Lake Wendouree Netball Courts.

Anyone wishing to still nominate for the 15 & Under and 13 & Under representative team please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. your nomination form by COB Monday the 22^nd of February.

Netball Victoria Membership

Have you registered with Netball Victoria (NV) for the 2021 season yet? Do you know your NV registration covers you for trials and training, as well as playing throughout the season? 

Junior Membership 11-17 years: $58

DOB:  01/01/2004 – 21/12/2010

Senior Membership 18 years & over: $78

DOB:  on or before 31/12/2003

For more information about Netball Victoria Membership visit:

https://vic.netball.com.au/netball-victoria-membership

Is Your Coaching or Umpiring Accreditation Up To Date?

All coaches and umpires are reminded to ensure their accreditation is updated before the commencement of the 2021 season. Check your coaching accreditation through My Netball, and all BFNL clubs will be requested to supply details of their accredited coaches and umpires to the league prior to round one. 

If you require more information about accreditation, you can access this via the following links: 

https://netball.com.au/umpiring-accreditation

https://netball.com.au/coaching-accreditation

Coaching and umpiring accreditation is a Netball Australia (national) requirement.

The board of the McDonald's Ballarat FNL provides the following update on all competitions considering today’s announcement from the state government. 

As of 11:59pm tonight (Monday), regional Victoria will return to the settings in place prior to the current lockdown. That is, community football and netball will be played with several protocols to be followed. 

WESTERN BULLDOGS UNDER 9’s 

The Western Bulldogs Under 9’s will continue to be placed on hold until such time as restrictions allow for suitable crowds to attend given a large number of players and their parent/carer concentrated at one venue. 

BFLWomens 

The McDelivery BFLW competition will resume from this weekend with games as fixtured to take place on Sunday 15thAugust 2021. 

The variation to a full return is that games featuring metro-based clubs (Melton Centrals and Melton) will not proceed. The result of those games will see points shared and no percentage applied. 

This will conclude the home & away season for BFLW and see finals commence as of the 21stAugust 2021 over three weeks. 

BFNL JUNIORS 

The McDonalds Ballarat FNL junior competitions will resume this weekend from the games as fixtured to take place on Sunday 15thAugust 2021. As with BFLW, this will conclude the home & away season for juniors in 2021. 

The Ballarat Toyota BFNL Juniors Finals Series will commence from Saturday 21stAugust 2021, with the format of finals to be confirmed. 

BFNL SENIORS 

Whilst it is encouraging that regional-based competition can resume from this weekend, the Ballarat FNL is in the unique position of having senior clubs across both metro and regional communities. As a result, BFNL senior competition can only return when the settings for metro and regional communities are consistent. 

Given the above, and the likelihood that many clubs will be impacted by the potential of metro-based players not being able to compete in a regional competition, the BFNL Seniors will not proceed this weekend. 

The senior round 13 will be cancelled and no results given. 

The league will await the next advice from the government to determine the status of the final home & away round on Saturday 21stAugust and the Carlton Draught Finals series due to commence from Saturday 28thAugust 2021. 

The pathway ahead for the coming week is based upon advice that is known at this point in time. 

The league is committed to ensuring the 2021 season can be concluded in the fairest manner for all clubs and supporters and appreciate the willingness of all stakeholders to be flexible as we work through the current protocols. 

END RELEASE 

The McDonalds Ballarat FNL is pleased to announce the appointment of Sally Kruger to the role of Netball Umpire Coordinator.

After a selection process that involved a number of highly credentialed applicants, Sally was selected to lead the development and education of umpires within the league, and to further grow the umpire panel available to clubs and the league.

Sally’s experience includes many years as a ‘badged’ umpire, officiating at the highest level in the region across both league and association netball.

Ballarat FNL netball continues to grow at a rate greater than expectations and the requirement for officials, including umpires has been identified as a priority.

Sally commences the role immediately and will provide a valued resource to clubs through the 2021 netball season.

END RELEASE

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL welcomes today's easing of restrictions that will allow senior football and netball to return to competition.

With crowd limits increased in regional Victoria to a maximum of 1,000 people, the last requirement to allow competition to return has been met.

As two rounds have been lost due to restrictions, the McDonald's BFNL senior competition will have a slightly different look and flow to the previous fixture published.

The senior football and netball fixture will be revised as follows:

• Rounds 1 to 6 will stand
• Rounds 7 and 8 will be played the next 2 weeks 19th June (Rd 7) and 26th June (Rd 8)
• Round 11 will be played as per the fixtured date (3rd July)
• Rounds 9 and 10 will be played the following two weeks 10th July (Rd 9) and 17th July (Rd10)
  - Rounds 12 and 13 from the original fixture will be the two rounds abandoned
• Rounds 14 to 18 will be as per the fixtured dates

The priority for the league has been to ensure all clubs play each other at least once, which is the minimum requirement to ensure a premiership season and will be achieved through the completion of round 10 scheduled for 17th July.

The revised game schedule ensures fixture integrity through all clubs having seven home and away games, along with two byes.

Looking forward, we wait for further announcements from the government that will allow crowds for metro-based BFNL clubs scheduled to host games in round eight.

This weekend will see the full Ballarat FNL competitions in action across BFNL seniors, BFNL juniors and BFLW. Western Bulldogs Under 9’s will resume this Friday night after a short break as well.

END RELEASE

The board of the McDonald's Ballarat FNL has today considered the announcement from the state government to extend the metro lockdown and the impact this has on the senior competition. 

Given the lockdown has been extended at this stage until midnight on Thursday 19thAugust 2021, it has been determined the final round of the home & away (round 14) scheduled for Saturday 21stAugust will be cancelled and not proceed.

This action will result in the 2021 Home & Away season now being completed. 

Ladder positions will be final as per the current results, which provide a true reflection of the competition given all clubs have played each other once. 

The 2021 Carlton Draught Senior Finals series is still planned to commence from Saturday 28thAugust, dependant on updates from the government as this date nears. 

The league will continue to show flexibility to ensure all finals can be played where possible with all clubs who have earned the right to participate given the opportunity. 

Further advice and details around finals structure and planning will be provided in due course, but clubs eligible for finals are asked to prepare for the series to commence as of the date advised. 

Details of the junior and BFLW finals series are being considered separately and will be advised at the completion of this weekend's games. 

END RELEASE 

Night one of the Showbiz Cinemas BFNL Netball Academy was a fantastic way to kick off the program, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting and enjoyable season ahead.

The energy and enthusiasm on court was great to see, with a strong focus on learning, skill development and teamwork. Participants embraced the environment, challenged themselves and supported one another as they began developing their netball skills in a positive and encouraging setting.

We sincerely thank Showbiz Cinemas for their support of the program and their commitment to helping create opportunities for young netballers. A great start to the Academy journey, and we’re looking forward to building on this momentum in the weeks to come.

What an incredible night at Academy this week!

We were thrilled to welcome special guest Kim Borger, who shared her experience and knowledge with our athletes. Kim has competed at the highest level with both the Melbourne Vixens and Sydney Swifts, and is now involved with the Western Warriors VNL Club.

Our players were extremely fortunate to learn from someone with such elite playing experience, and we are so grateful to Kim for giving her time to support our Academy athletes.

To top it off, Showbiz Cinemas even dropped in to see the program in action – we truly appreciate their ongoing support of the BFNL Netball Academy.

A fantastic Week 2 and plenty more to come! 

We were super excited to welcome Riley Richardson to Week 3 of the BFNL Showbiz Cinemas Netball Academy!

Riley is a member of the Australian Men’s Netball Team (Kelpies) and is widely recognised as an incredibly talented mid-courter. His speed, vision and court craft made him an outstanding role model for our athletes, and we were extremely fortunate to have him share his time with our program.

Riley passed on his skills, knowledge and experiences to participants, giving our BFNL Netball Academy athletes a unique opportunity to learn from one of the best in the game.

This is exactly what the Academy was all about — providing high-quality development experiences and exposure to elite pathways.

A huge thank you to Showbiz Cinemas for their continued support of the BFNL Netball Academy, helping us deliver opportunities like this for our young athletes.

What an incredible way to finish the 2026 BFNL Netball Academy!

Over the past four weeks, we have watched our athletes grow not only in skill, however in confidence, leadership and game understanding. The learning and development across all participants has been outstanding. From footwork and fundamentals to match play, decision making and the improvement in every athlete has been clear to see.

Most importantly, the energy has been amazing. The fun, enthusiasm and willingness to learn created a fantastic environment each and every session. Our athletes embraced every opportunity, challenged themselves and supported one another, exactly what community sport is all about.

One of the true highlights of this year’s academy was the opportunity for our participants to learn from National Players, National Coaches, VNL Coaches and VNL Players. Having these high level mentors share their knowledge, experiences and insights provided inspiration and invaluable learning moments for everyone involved. It was an experience our athletes won’t forget anytime soon.

A huge thank you to our major sponsor, Showbiz Cinemas. Without Showbiz Cinema’s support, we simply could not deliver an academy of this quality or continue to provide development opportunities for athletes within our community. Your investment in grassroots sport is helping shape the future of netball in our region, and we are incredibly grateful.

Thank you to our coaches, guest presenters, athletes and families for making the 2026 BFNL Netball Academy such a success. We can’t wait to see these athletes continue to shine throughout the season and beyond.

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL looks to welcome a safe return to junior competition this weekend for regional-based clubs under eased restrictions.

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL welcomes today’s announcement of eased restrictions for regional Victoria and community sport. 

Given today’s announcement, the board of the Ballarat FNL is working through the various protocols and guidelines, as provided, to ensure junior competition can be undertaken this weekend. 

These competitions include the Western Bulldogs Under 9’s, BFNL junior football and netball and BFLW Youth grades (Under 14 to Under 18’s). 

It is the league's intention that junior football and netball take place in an environment that is safe and has regard for the health and wellbeing of all participants and their families. 

The further restrictions and requirements to allow competition are being clarified and will be announced as soon as they are confirmed. 

As announced, senior competitions can return to training for regional-based clubs under a number of restrictions detailed to clubs. 

We hope players and clubs are preparing for the various competitions that will return this week and look forward to further details as soon as they are available. It is anticipated full details will be announced within the next 24 hours. 

END RELEASE

The McDonald’s Ballarat FNL wishes to acknowledge an error in the voting for the Under 15 Senior Football Best & Fairest.

The League wishes to advise of an error in the results of the Under 15 Senior Best & Fairest Award.

Following an error in the collation of votes for the Round 11 match between East Point & Darley, a recalculation of the votes has seen a change in the final leader board.

As a result, East Point’s Harry Charleson and Darley’s Mitchell Gardiner both finished on a revised total of 17 votes, equalling runner up Jacob Britt from East Point.

The league apologies for the error in counting and wishes to acknowledge both Harry and Mitchell for their outstanding 2021 seasons.

Harry played 10 games this season, including a further 5 in the Under 17 Reserves to assist with playing numbers throughout the year. Averaging over a goal a game. Harry’s season included four Best on Ground performances as adjudged by the umpires and appeared in his club’s best players on all but one occasion.

Mitchell’s season for Darley was equally as impressive, booting 17 goals for the season. Mitchell was named Best on Ground for the Ballarat FNL Under 15 interleague match against Bendigo in June. Four Best on Ground performances was also a highlight of Mitchell's consistent season.

Updated award info and club by club votes can be found below.

Award winners from the night are as follows:

Buxton Ballarat Junior Football Goal Kicking Awards

2021 McDonald's Ballarat Under 13 Seniors

• Murphy Skinner (Ballarat Storm Junior Football Club) 26        

2021 GJ Gardner Under 15 Seniors

• Jayven Tanner (Darley Football Club) 29

2021 McCafe Under 17 Seniors

• Isaac Hucker (Mount Clear Junior Football Club) 38
• Joel Freeman (Bacchus Marsh Football & Netball Club Inc) 38

13 & Under Senior Netball Best & Fairest

Runner Up: Jemima Knobel (Ballarat Swans) - 17 votes   

Winner: Ebony Porter (North Ballarat) - 20 votes 

Under 13 Football Best & Fairest – The Lloyd Sims Trophy

Runners Up: Cole Hutchinson (Mount Clear) & Cooper Beseler (North Ballarat) - 15 votes       

Winner: Armi Wakefield (Bacchus Marsh) - 22 votes 

15 & Under Senior Netball Best & Fairest

Runners Up: Matilda Myers (Redan) & Arna Howard (Ballarat Swans) - 18 votes   

Winners: Bridie Shanahan (Darley) & Maddison Lewis (Sebastopol) - 19 votes

Under 15 Football Best & Fairest – The Keith Rawle Memorial Trophy

Runner Up: Jacob Britt (East Point), Harry Charleson (East Point) & Mitchell Gardiner (Darley) - 17 votes         

Winner: Jonty Faull (Redan) - 21 votes 

Coordinator of The Year Awards

Junior Football Coordinator of The Year: James Bik - Ballarat Swans JFNC

Junior Netball Coordinator of The Year Award: Alissa Harris - Darley JFNC

Coach of The Year Awards

Junior Football Coach of the Year Award: Brett Dean – Sebastopol JFNC

Junior Netball Coach of the Year Award: Leah McDonald – Redan JFNC

Ballarat FL Interleague Coach Recognition

Football Interleague Coaches

• U/13 Coach – Scott Petrie & Simon Geljon
• U/14 Coach – Michael Dwyer & Tom Molan
• U/15 Coach – Tim Beacham
• U/16.5 Coach – Wayne McKercher

Netball Interleague Coaches

• 13 & Under Coach – Courtney McLean and Kara Hart
• 15 & Under Coach – Katie Keighrey
• 17 & Under Coach – Prue Douglass, Damien Mullane and Debra Hutchinson

Merv & Mary Howard Memorial Junior Club Championship

3^rd: Redan JFNC - 189 points 

2^nd: North Ballarat JFNC - 190 points

Winner: East Point JFNC - 195 points

Special Presentation to Junior Footballers & Netballers

• 17 & Under Netball Victorian State Team Member – Adut Manyiel (Sebastopol FNC)
• Under 17 Victoria Country Football Squad Member – Felix Fogaty (East Point JFNC)
• Under 12 Victorian Metro State Team – Oliver Cape (Darley JFNC)

17 & Under Senior Netball B & F

Runner Up: Arlee Bennett (North Ballarat) - 18 votes       

Winner: Bella Clark (Lake Wendouree) - 22 votes 

Under 17 Senior Football Best & Fairest - The Gordon Wise Memorial Trophy

Runner Up: Jack Jeffrey (East Point) - 15 votes      

Winner: Ethan McKercher (Bacchus Marsh) - 25 votes 

Robert Allan Medals and Netball MVP Awards

13 & Under Senior Netball – Most Valuable Player Award

Winner: Ebony Porter (North Ballarat) – 11 Votes

Under 13 Senior Robert Allan Medal

Winner: Riley Hiscock (East Point) – 19 Votes

15 & Under Senior Netball – Most Valuable Player Award

Winner: Chelsea Oellering (Mount Clear) – 7 Votes

Under 15 Senior Robert Allan Medal

Winner: Samuel Lalor (Bacchus Marsh) – 15 Votes

17 & Under Senior Netball – Most Valuable Player Award

Winner: Bella Clark (Lake Wendouree) – 16 Votes

Under 17 Senior Robert Allan Medal

Winner: Joel Freeman (Bacchus Marsh) – 15 Votes

A full list of club votes - including the updated U15 Senior Football vote tables - can be found attached.

The Ballarat FNL is saddened with the recent passing of a stalwart of the league, Wayne Hankin. Wayne was a former chair of the league and with his contributions to the league over many years, was awarded a life membership of the Ballarat FNL.

Wayne held many roles with the BFNL from the late 70's and had been instrumental in preserving some of the rich and proud history of the league, along with his beloved Golden Point FC.

On behalf of all member clubs of the league, we pass on our condolences to the family of Wayne.

To recognise his passing, The Courier have written a piece in todays paper and can be read here:  https://bit.ly/3cgKhG7

The McDonalds Ballarat FNL today announces several venue changes to Junior Competitions across football and netball this weekend.

In conjunction with the City of Ballarat and competing clubs, a decision has been made to move matches away from the Mars Stadium precinct this Sunday 11^th July.

Venue changes have been made to avoid a clash with the Greater Western Sydney vs Gold Coast Suns match, now scheduled to be played in Ballarat this Sunday following recent fixture confirmations from the AFL.

As a result, the following amendments have been made to this weekend’s junior fixtures:

• Lake Wendouree vs Ballarat Swans to now be played on Oval 2 at Alfredton Recreation Reserve.
• North Ballarat v Bacchus Marsh to now be played at Marty Busch Reserve in Sebastopol.

Both the Ballarat FNL and the City of Ballarat appreciate the understanding and cooperation of all clubs involved in the changes.

END RELEASE

The League in conjunction with the City of Ballarat has made a venue change for this Saturday’s Junior Football & Netball Qualifying Finals.

As a result of the current condition of Wendouree Reserve, the decision has been made to move Saturday’s games to Northern Oval 2, ensuring the ground does not deteriorate further ahead of Sunday’s Elimination Finals. The venue change includes all netball matches which will now be played on the North Ballarat netball courts.

The schedule for matches on Sunday will remain as originally fixtured. Please see below this weekend’s match schedules.

Entry Details

Saturday 20^th August

• North Ballarat Sports Club Gate
• Note: STRICTLY NO PARKING IN NORTH BALLARAT SPORTS CLUB CAR PARKS
• Wendouree Reserve / Northern Oval 2 Gate
• The double gate between the Wendouree Reserve and Northern Oval 2 will be open to allow attendees the ability to utilise parking around Wendouree Reserve and for those that may enter off Dowling Street.

Sunday 21^st August

• North Ballarat Sports Club Gate
• Note: STRICTLY NO PARKING IN NORTH BALLARAT SPORTS CLUB CAR PARKS
• Wendouree Reserve – Enter via Dowling Street.

Admission Fees

Admission fees now come into effect for all BFNL Junior Finals matches. Fees are as follows:

BFNL Junior Finals 2022

• Adults - $10
• Family (2 adults & 2 children) - $25
• Age Pensioner - $5
• 8 - 16yo - $5
• U/8 – Free

Admission fees provide entry to ALL BFLW and JUNIOR games on the same day. Please ensure you obtain a passout when leaving to obtain entry at another venue.

Following a successful return to senior finals after a three-year wait, the McDonald's Ballarat FNL is pleased to announce details of Week Two of the Carlton Draught Senior Finals series. 

In football, Semi Final Two, and the chance to progress directly to the 2022 Carlton Draught Grand Final will be held at Macpherson Park, Melton on Saturday 3rdSeptember 2022 following the success of the debut at this venue. Semi Final One will be held at City Oval, Ballarat on Sunday 4thSeptember 2022. 

Netball will see a slight variation with Semi Final One to be held at Macpherson Park, Melton Saturday 3rdSeptember and Semi Final Two, and the chance for Grand Final progression to be held Sunday 4thSeptember. 

Melton will have the chance to grab a Grand Final berth should they win Saturday; however, Sebastopol will be a formidable opponent standing in their way. In the other semi-final, Darley will travel to Ballarat and take on the Swans at City Oval, the scene of their nail-biting one-point win over the reigning premiers last week. 

With a full card of netball across both days and record crowds in Week One, the excitement continues to build as we head towards the 2022 Carlton Draught Grand Final on Saturday 17thSeptember. 

You can see the path to the Grand Final below and find the full schedule for Week Two of the 2022 Carlton Draught Finals Series below. Want to download the schedule? Hit the button at the end of the article or do what we do and make an easy link on our phone by selecting Add to Home Screen under the web address.

In an historic night for the McDonalds Ballarat FNL, Woady Yaloak Football Netball Club has been admitted as an affiliated club of the league.

After a period of four years planning and support, Woady Yaloak FNC will be the 13th club member of the league and will formally compete in the junior competition from 2023 onwards.

With support from Golden Plains Shire, AFL Victoria and the league, the addition of the club will continue to cater for the growth of junior football and netball across the region.

With junior participation on the rise after the COVID period, Woady Yaloak meets the need of families in the region around Smythesdale and Haddon towards the Ballarat West growth corridor.

Fielding four football and two netball teams participating, the BFNL junior competition continues to grow and place itself as the premier junior competition in the region.

BFNL Chair Adrian Bettio

“It’s fantastic to have Woady Yaloak formally a member of the league after a lot of work to get to this point. Congratulations to Adam and Mark and all the volunteers and families that will be part of the league moving forward.”

The McDonalds Ballarat FNL junior competition will kick off on the 16th April 2023 with ten clubs competing across 10 age groups.