All McDonald's Ballarat FNL competitions are paused under current restrictions as the board considers the next available steps.

With the latest restrictions placed upon regional Victoria at short notice, the board of the McDonald's Ballarat FNL is currently considering the next steps available as we look to the completion of our 2021 premiership seasons. 

As the situation stands, the senior football and netball competition is stopped until such time as restrictions allow metro and regional clubs to compete in the finals series. This also applies to the BFLW Open competition. 

It was anticipated that BFNL Junior and BFLW Youth/Juniors would commence last weekend but that did not occur due to lockdown. 

Both competitions will be paused until clarity is provided around the current restrictions. This will allow the league to consider the timeframes available for the finals series in both competitions. 

There are many factors involving several stakeholders that need to be considered, including ground availabilities and club resources. 

END RELEASE 

The McDonalds Ballarat FNL continue to set the standard across competitions with confirmation that Vita First Aid will partner with the league in 2023.

The partnership will ensure that qualified first responders will be in attendance at every junior football and netball game through the 2023 season to provide the best medical care should it be needed. Vita First Aid staff will complement the terrific work undertaken by club volunteer trainers and add to the support provided.

Introduced as a trial in 2022, the overwhelming success led to an extension of this service to provide quality care for competitors and to further enhance the commitment to junior football and netball in the league.

As the only competition in regional Victoria to provide such a service and care, the Ballarat FNL is proud to set the standard for on field and off field competition and support.

Ballarat FNL General Manager, Shane Anwyl

“Providing qualified first aid services to our players is critical at this time given the concerns around concussion and other ongoing injuries.

Vita First Aid give a level certainty and “peace of mind” certainly for parents knowing their children can receive quality care should they be seriously injured.”

AFL Victoria has updated the Return to Play protocols with the latest requirements for face masks indoors and space density limits.

What clubs need to know:

- Face masks must be work in all indoor spaces

- Outdoor capacity limits:

• Max. group size of 100 people
• No more than 1 per 2 square metres if using electronic check-ins
• 1 per 4 square metres if using paper-based registers

- Indoor capacity limits:

• Max. 1 per 4 square metres
• Limit change room access to players and essential staff ONLY, with capacity limited to 1 per 2 square metres

- Every club MUST have a COVID Safe Plan in place before matches recommence

- Update and continue to follow your COVID Safe Training Plan - You can find the AFL Vic COVID Safe Plan template here

- The updated protocols provide additional clarity on managing a positive COVID-19 case within a club

“Keeping up to date with COVID protocols changes helps keep all of our footy and netball communities safe and COVID compliant," said BFNL General Manager, Shane Anwyl.

“It is important that every club has a COVID Safe Plan in place and that updates are implemented. We thank Club COVID Officers, committees, coaches and players for their outstanding work in setting us up for a COVID Safe 2021 season."

As it stands, spectator capacity for matches remains at a maximum of 1000 patrons, not including participants. AFL Victoria has advised that more detail on the management of spectators is being prepared and will be provided to clubs once available. Any further updates will be shared on www.bfnl.com.au and the BFNL Facebook page.

The McDonalds Ballarat FNL today announces a number of changes to the 2021 season based upon the recently announced COVID lockdown.

The health and safety of the wider BFNL community is of the utmost importance in any decision that is made regarding competitions, along with the advice provided by health authorities, state government and AFL Victoria.

Given today's announcement, the league wishes to advise the following impacts upon the various competitions:

SENIOR FOOTBALL & NETBALL

• The Round Seven matches scheduled for 29th May 2021 will be abandoned.
• No points or percentage shall be awarded to any team.
• Points previously allocated for a bye will be removed, with no further points awarded for future scheduled byes to ensure ladder integrity.
• The possibility of shifting Round Seven to the Queen's Birthday weekend will be investigated pending discussions with clubs.

JUNIOR FOOTBALL & NETBALL

• The Round Seven matches scheduled for 30th May 2021 will be abandoned.
• No points or percentage shall be awarded to any team.
• Points previously allocated for a bye will be removed, with no further points awarded for future scheduled byes to ensure ladder integrity.

BFLWomens

• The Round Five matches scheduled for 28th - 30th May 2021 will be abandoned.
• No points or percentage shall be awarded to any team.
• Points previously allocated for a bye will be removed, with no further points awarded for future scheduled byes to ensure ladder integrity.

It is anticipated all competitions will resume fixtured games from the weekend of 5th June 2021, pending the ongoing advice from health authorities.

The league would like to thank all our volunteers, officials and players for the tremendous work undertaken to date to ensure the various competitions of the McDonald's Ballarat FNL can be played for our communities.

Further advice and updates will be made available directly to clubs as they come to hand. The league website and social media will also have updates as they are made.

END RELEASE

In our 2021 club-by-club draw analysis, BFNL Media’s ‘Scoop’ delves into the season ahead for Darley. Over the next two weeks, Scoop will unveil the pros and cons of the fixture for every BFNL club.

Darley

Draw rating points: 98
2021 draw ranking: #3

PROS:Meet 2019 Grand Finalists East Point and Sebastopol just ONCE

- Sebastopol may be missing home after a run of FOUR consecutive away games when the two sides meet at Darley Park in Round 6. 

- No 'highway travel' after Round 11

- Don't leave town until Round 5 (v. Ballarat).

CONS:Ordinary stretch from Round 8 to Round 11 with THREE highway trips WEST v. East Point (Rd8), Redan (Rd9) and Lake Wendouree (Rd11)

Comment:Darley will welcome an easier draw than they faced in recent times given their loss of player personnel since their 2019 Elimination Final defeat to Redan. The draw gives them some chance to feature at the business end of the season, but it won't be easy. They Devils will need to win the close ones.

With preseason preparations well under way and Round 1 fast approaching, Scoop goes one-on-one with all 11 senior coaches ahead of the 2023 McDonalds BFNL season.

CLUB: Darley

COACH: Dan Jordan (2nd Season)

2022 Home & Away Record: 4th (10-6, 111.20%)

Scoop: Can we expect much of the same from the Devils in 2023 or is it fair to suggest you can better a group second time around - natural progression if you will?

Dan Jordan: Clearly last year was an educational phase learning how we want to play. Given that base we have an opportunity to consolidate and build on our connection and familiarity.

S: You lose A-Grade talent Nick Rodda and Dylan Landt - does this make the challenge considerably more difficult to improve?

DJ: It's exciting really. Opportunity presents for some that wouldn't necessarily have had that chance with Nick and Dylan in the side. Spreading the load essentially is what we're ready to embrace.

S: You played Grand Finalists Melton and Sebastopol only once in 2022 but still averaged 75.3 points AGST per game (ranked 6th in comp) – is there a primary focus in strengthening particular lines this during the pre-season to further support this?

DJ: There's no one particular focus. All three lines we will aim to develop. I see considerable growth for this group with our connection and depth.

S: The addition of Billy Myers is significant. His versatility gives you options. If Round 1 was tomorrow - where would we likely see him line-up? Do you have an ideal position earmarked for him?

DJ: Billy is a quality player who drives standards in preparation and on the track along with Brett (Bewley). We're kind of tossing up at the moment to be honest what role would be 'the ideal'. At the moment, I would say forward/mid but his versatility, as you say, certainly gives us options.

S: Runaway 2022 Henderson Medalist Brett Bewley was hampered by a calf complaint at the business end of last year. Has that meant a re-assessment of his potential midfield minutes despite the absence of Landt?

DJ: Depends on our depth around the ball. Brett shouldered a heavy workload for us last year and had an outstanding season. I've always been a fan of having your best players around the ball but we'll keep an eye on it - I’m quite happy for him to be peaking later than Round 1.

S: What are some of the identified strengths of the club?

DJ: Our connection in defence and knowing each other’s roles.

S: Where do you expect to see your projected improvement come from?

DJ: Contested ball craft and intensity. Creative ball movement and less predictability. Forward half defence. Dealing with expectation.

S: How has pre-season training looked?

DJ: The boys came back after the break looking good. That fitness base gives us an advantage to work at higher intensity and be less prone to injury.

S: Who do you expect to be the biggest improvers this year? (Outside of your club)

DJ: Sunbury - they played some good footy at the back end of last season and were able to beat Melton.

S: Who is your flag tip? (Outside of your club)

DJ: Melton – I think they’ll be pretty similar to last year and will be hard to beat.

KEY INS:

Billy Myers (Williamstown VFL), Matt Denham (Melton), Billy Sullivan (Melton South), Riley Matricardi (Trentham), Darcy Matricardi (Trentham)

PLAYER OUTS:

N.Rodda (Warrnambool), D.Landt (Dimboola)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

B.Young (Footscray). M.Cousins (Geelong)

Scoop's Darley prediction: 3rd - 4th

With the 2025 season on the horizon, Scoop has caught up with all our senior footy coaches as we build towards an epic Round 1!

It was a tale of so near but so far for the Devils in 2024, but with some of the best talent stocks in the league, Darley are sure to be one of the big contenders this year.

SCOOP: Dan, how do you weigh up the addition of key personnel v compliance when trying to make up the five or six goals you need to challenge the Bloods?

DAN JORDAN: There are a range of areas we're working on to make up the 2-3% we think are needed to play our best footy. Explore versatility (players in different positions), build connection with more time spent on the fundamentals that were momentum killers for us last year. Conditioning and preparation has also been a primary focus to improve our running ability, aid execution, and limit risk of future injury. We had a number of four week plus injuries last year that didn't allow us to play our best footy.

S: You won 11 of 18 games (4th) in your first year at the Devils, 17 of 19 (Premiership) in year two and 12 of 19 (3rd) last year - can we expect a tinker in the game plan or is the current plan still a work in progress?

DJ: The plan is always evolving. We certainly think it's good enough. Depth in role clarity is one example we can share!

S: Just on that, has the more recent Melton dominance lured or tempted you to change things up specifically?

DJ: Not really. Melton's strength is they are very clear on expectation playing a role, similar to us in 2023. (Ironically) the Bloods are an excellent blueprint having won in '22, fell short in '23 and bounced in '24 with a flag. We won in 2023, fell short in '24 and 2025 well......you get my drift. We need to improve in the area of 'clear expectation' down to the 22nd man each week.  

S: Dan, of last year’s finalists the Devils had the fewest number (10) of players average 16 disposal or more. Is it fair to suggest you were lacking two or three impact players (hence Nick Hind and Mickey Edwards additions) or do those numbers tell you something else?

DJ: It tells me we have high calibre top end talent and a healthy depth of role players. We're excited for a number of players capable of progressing to the next tier of their footy journey.

S: Tell us about your exciting new recruits Nick Hind and Mickey Edwards and their likely roles....

DJ: Hind - clearly a highly valued versatile acquisition. Nick has already shown great leadership and has fitted into the group seamlessly. As far as pinpointing any specific role, we will play it by ear to best suit our makeup.

Edwards - athletic type, left foot utility who covers the ground well, still in his early 20's - back, forward, wing option. We will be patient with Mickey given he is coming off an ACL injury. We're rapt to have him join the club and think his greatest impact will come in the second half of the season especially. Body preparation is paramount.

S: Mace Cousins, Brady Wright, Joel Cadman and Lucas Impey are your four VFL affiliated players - do you expect to see much of them or do you plan for a season without them?:

DJ: I would anticipate Mace is more unlikely to be with us for the most part. Brady, I would think will get his opportunity at VFL level. Joel is having a terrific preseason (best yet) so we're hopeful he can break into the team at Werribee and chase his footy dream. Lucas, we need to remember is relatively new to the game and remains a work in progress at Williamstown. We fully support the boys and will monitor their progress with keen interest. With reference to planning - availability (to play with us) will be considered a bonus.    

S: Is there anything in the way of Adam Azzopardi and Joel Cadman taking their games to new levels of impact from week to week?

DJ: Adam finished fourth in our best and fairest and missed a block of footy with a broken jaw. We saw first-hand Adam's progress in the finals series injury free. He's an important part of our make-up. Joel too is chasing some continuity with his footy free of injury. Not dissimilar to Adam, Joel was instrumental in the final third of the season and pipped only by Brett (Bewley) as best in finals. I think we (and Joel) may have found his spot and are excited for what that holds on the back of an uninterrupted preseason. 

S: Any diamonds in the rough at the Devils to get excited about ahead of the new season?

DJ: We have a few guys that have been in the program for 2-3 years now with the 20+ games profile we believe have considerable scope. Mitch Gardiner is one example.

S: If you had to attach a theme or key phrase for the year ahead at the Devils - how would you word that?

DJ: Dare to Darley. Theme is centred around our values and what it means to be a Darley person.

PLAYER INS:

N. Hind (Essendon AFL), M. Edwards (Banyule).

PLAYER OUTS:

M. Ward (Ocean Grove), M. Denham (retired)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

M. Cousins (Werribee), B. Wright (Werribee), J. Cadman (Werribee), L. Impey (Williamstown).

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE:

March 15 - vs South Barwon (H)
March 22 - vs Pascoe Vale (@Overnewton College)

IMPROVERS TIP: (OUTSIDE OF DARLEY)

DJ: Sebastopol

FLAG TIP: (OUTSIDE OF DARLEY)

DJ: Melton

With Round 1 fast approaching, Scoop has caught up with all ten senior footy coaches as they prepare for season 2026!

All eyes will be on the reigning premiers and their flag defence as Dan Jordan's men bring a 20-game unbeaten streak into the new year.

SCOOP: You’ve had a great run with the Devils ahead of your fifth season with two flags. You get a second opportunity to defend a title - will you have to change much to get it done this time around?

DAN JORDAN: There were some lessons learned from our title defence in 2024 and again the way we went about it last year. The personnel is a little different, and the game plan tweaked. You always hope you can evolve organically and develop with time spent so we trust a combination of the two in conjunction with previous learnings will hold us in good stead.

S: Progressive midfielder Adam Azzopardi is likely to spend some time overseas - is there a player putting their hand up for a potential midfield role or is there one (if any) you will target to fill the void?

DJ: Yes, Adam will miss a month of footy thereabouts with his trip in June/July. The club supports Adam’s decision to continue his growth as a person embracing new life lessons. As for earmarking a replacement, I’d like to think we have a number of options - Joel Cadman, Darcey Matricardi, Mitch Gardiner are three names off the top that spring to mind.

S: I noticed some quality opposition locked in for your two practice matches, not dissimilar to last year. Is that a deliberate ploy, a hit out against the best going around from other competitions?

DJ: That’s been my mantra I guess you could say - having hit outs against quality opposition especially when you have a big game in Round 1 like we have (Sunbury) and did last year (Melton). You can also find if a young bloke with little or no senior footy experience is ready to go.

S: No doubting the boy’s competitive juices will be flowing - how do you manage pride (will to win) v practice in these scenarios?

DJ: The older guys are very experienced in this space and will know what is best/how to manage their bodies. Sure, we all want to win every game, that’s one of the reasons we play but we are under no illusions where our weight of priorities lie with round one and the season ahead.

S: You lose key ruckman Lucas Impey (13 games and in best six times last season) to Swan Districts (WA) - is that role/responsibility likely to be shared amongst a handful or have you earmarked the position for one or two in particular?

DJ: To be honest it’s not a priority for us at this stage- we considered having Lucas last year as a luxury. We have a number of options that can share the load which we have seen in the past. We have a diligent midfield that can adjust on the run from oppo to oppo depending on their level of strength in this area. It’s a play it by ear scenario for us in the here and now if it must be said.

AREAS OF IMPROVEMENT

DJ: Again we had the luxury of Mace Cousins (8 games) down back for us last year and given his pre-season (injury free) at Werribee we don’t think we’re likely to see much of him to be honest. So, under our defensive coach Matty Brett who is doing a wonderful job - we will look to build on our ability to defend while at the other end, work on avenues to goal aside from Will Johnson who kicked 65 for us last year. Super effort.

INS & OUTS

In:

Out: L. Impey (Swan Districts WAFL), D. Fawcett (Melton Centrals), R. Matricardi (Hepburn), L. Spiteri (Melton South)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS

B. Wright (Werribee), M. Cousins (Werribee), J. Tanner (Western Bulldogs), M. Edwards (Williamstown - train on), M. Gardiner (Geelong - train on).

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE

March 15 v Keilor @Overnewton College

March 28 v Leopold (VTBD)

CLUB IMPROVERS TIP

DJ: North Ballarat

FLAG TIP

DJ: Sunbury

SCOOP SAYS

The reigning premiers are chasing a fifth title in 10 (completed) seasons and a third in five under coach Dan Jordan.

The three big guns Brett Bewley, Nick Hind and Billy Myers will again lead a proven support crew deserved of the unofficial flag favourites tag even this far out.

With any luck on the injury front ‘the hunted’ Devils remain the team to beat in 2026, currently on an impressive 20-0 run.

Projected finish: 1st

A never-say-die Darley came from the clouds to pinch its third BFNL Premiership in a one-point thriller over North Ballarat at City Oval.

Devils’ utility Billy Myers became the hero after slotting his second goal in the 31st minute of the last quarter to put the Devils in front with just seconds remaining.

While there were plenty of superlatives flying around in the aftermath best describing the nature of the ‘steal’, jubilation for Darley and heartbreak for North Ballarat were the overwhelming constants.

North Ballarat were brave, and for many the best side on the day. The Roosters lead for all bar four minutes of the second term and the handful of the dying seconds post the Myers sealer.

Roosters’ midfield trio Cam McCullum, Riley Polkinghorne and Jack Riding bounced back from their second semi vulnerabilities to nullify Devils’ playmaker combo Brett Bewley and Luther Baker.

Experienced Roosters’ coach Brendan McCartney had his young group on point, coming oh so close to pulling off what would have been a deserving win.

The Roosters hunted in numbers with great effect and finished the game ahead in most key KPIs but not the one that mattered most, the scoreboard.

Devils’ coach Dan Jordan conceded North Ballarat held the advantage over his boys who were aiming to end their season with a tenth straight win.

“I thought you (North Ballarat) outplayed us today,” Jordan said.

The Roosters led by as much as 26 points early in the third quarter when former Essendon, Western Bulldogs and Geelong forward Stewart Crameri kicked truly from a set shot 40 metres out from goal.

Just how the Devils were able to get out of their dire situation would still have most of the footy public baffled.

Roosters’ fans would have every right to think they would win the replay given the nature of their performance - arguably their best for the season despite the loss.

But let’s not forget the Devils had to do plenty right to win the game with every bit of time, score and momentum seemingly against them.

Shane Page and Duncan Cadman were a pillar of strength, the unofficial quarterbacks denying the hunters. Their courage, rebound, second and third efforts would help change the narrative and keep the dream alive.

Jordan opted to park structure discussions at the last change leaning toward his faith in the group, a relationship two years in the build.

Onus on character, resilience and trust was the overriding theme that gave onlookers goosebumps and the realisation that all was not lost.

A four-goal-to-one final term capped by the icy vein finish of Myers would see the Devils storm home to win by the barest of margins in a BFNL Grandstand finish for the ages.

For all of Jordan’s football successes, predominantly on-field, strangely it was the 42-year-olds first flag involvement since his 2002 stint with VAFA club St Bernard’s. Drought over.

More broadly it was the Devils’ third BFNL Premiership since 2015 and first since 2017.

The crowning achievement is just reward for a season rendered ‘complicated’ given their entire first half season was played ‘away’ due to an elongated completion of its new facility.

The Devils hardworking faithful will duly celebrate for as long as they see fit, a memory now etched in Black and White folklore. ‘Redemption complete’.

For North Ballarat, while every bit brave, are left reeling in the space of contemplation, filtering what could have been.

That’s footy.

Medal winners

Roy Edward Memorial Trophy: Riley Polkinghorne (North Ballarat)

AFL Victoria Country Medal: Billy Myers (Darley)

Coaches’ Verdict

Dan Jordan (Darley): “Full respect to North Ballarat, I think they actually outplayed us in most facets for the day but we hung in and took our big moments in the last quarter and sometimes that can be enough in footy and ultimately proved the difference.

Special mention for Leigh Spiteri (shoulder) who had the unselfishness to pull out of the game midweek. Brave call for the betterment of the group.

He too is a premiership player this year in our eyes.”

Brendan McCartney (North Ballarat): ”Great game of footy. So proud of our players commitment to the contest and what was needed in the game. (We) did our very best as a club on Grand Final day. Well done to Darley.”

Darley 3.2-20, 4.2-26, 7.4-46, 11.5-71 defeated

North Ballarat 3.3-21, 6.4-40, 9.6-60, 10.10-70

Darley (Scoop's Best): S.Page, D.Cadman, M.Denham, J.Cadman, An.Azzopardi, J.Zeestraten, B.Bewley, B.Myers, B.Young.

North Ballarat (Scoop’s Best): C.McCullum, Ri.Polkinghorne, J.Riding, S.Glover, I.Lovisson, S.Crameri, S.McCartin, J.Sparkman, F.Loader.

Darley (Goals): J.Cadman 3, W.Johnson 2, B.Myers 2, B.Bewley, D.Matricardi, M.Cousins, And Azzopardi.

North Ballarat (Goals): S.Crameri 3, J.Quick 2, S.Glover 2, H.Loader, J.Riding, Ri Polkinghorne.

Round 12 Darley vs East Point Preview with 'Scoop'

Darley’s own dual Henderson Medallist and inspirational leader Brett Bewley will miss Saturday’s all-important run-home clash with East Point following news of a broken leg sustained before the bye.

The injury occurred during the second quarter of Darley’s Round 11 clash with Redan on June 27.

The dual Premiership captain played through the pain and discomfort to finish with 37 disposals and a crucial hand in the match winning goal.

His return is speculative at this time but the powers that be are eyeing the prospect of finals as ‘hopeful’.

The Devils’ skipper joins in form midfielder Joel Cadman (hamstring) and Billy Myers (finger) on the sidelines.

As a result, the equation ahead for the Devils (3rd) against the eighth placed Kangas just rose into the danger game status if it wasn’t already.

Two glaring stats in favour of Dan Jordan’s backs-to-the-wall army is they’re on a 16-0 winning run at home dating back to the final’s series of 2024 and, East Point have not won at Darley Park since 2014.

This match, despite their separation on the ladder is a flip of the coin encounter given the Kangas only outs are Jesse Cairns (hamstring) and Sam Cue (leg) also noting Jackson Merrett’s departure from the club earlier this season.

Jordan will have been the first to process and plan for a match without Bewley, Myers and Joel Cadman despite the unfortunate rareness of the occasion.

The two-time premiership coach is not one to look in the rear vision mirror to contemplate what lays ahead, rather channel his energies into the ‘what haves’ as the Devils hope for some respite in the form of potential returns via Will Johnson, Jayven Tanner and Harley Inglis.

On the flipside outgoing Kangas’ coach Joe Carmody will arrive full of confidence despite just one win at the venue as a player and coach over his long journey in the BFNL.

The Kangas have lost their last three games but were within touch of all Sunbury, Sebastopol and Melton.

The momentum of the Kangas’ rebuild, while not evident in the win/loss column, and the knowledge of being in their last meet against the Devils up until time on in the last quarter should hold them in good stead.

Mickitja Rotumah-Onus, Liam Canny, Jacob Brown and Joe Dodd have maintained their form and will ask questions of their opposing leader equivalents Luther Baker, Nick Hind, Matthew Brett, Lachie George and Zane Le Huray to stand up.

The wounded Devils have been brave over the last month (3-0), but what say of them now given the current landscape without Brett Bewley, Billy Myers and Joel Cadman?

What was once a mandatory Darley selection has been reduced merely to a postcode decision.

Scoop’s tip: Darley 

More previews of Round 12 matches to come.

With the 2021 season kicking off this weekend, Scoop says there's plenty to like about what is building at Darley Park. New playing coach Dan Roy says the club's finals destiny is in their own hands.

Darley

Scoop’s 2021 prediction: 5th - 7th

EXPECT Darley to be the hunters in 2021, not the hunted, despite the loss of star quality over the extended break.

Premiership playing coach Heath Scotland (Sunshine), Brian Graham (Sunshine), Nick Graham (North Footscray) headline eight absentees from 2019, raising reasonable doubt over the club extending on its proud run of finals appearances (every season since 2012, including two flags 2015 and 2017).

Enter new playing coach Dan Roy (Lorne) who will lead the mission.

"I'm rapt with how things are going," he said.

"We've built a lot already on our base fitness levels; some blokes are working the house down.

"Numbers on the track have been 30-plus most nights, which is really pleasing."

While the 33-year-old conceded the loss of Scotland and the Graham brothers will hurt, Roy is confident the hole left can be filled by ready-made Darley players prepared to take the next step.

"If we can improve 10 per cent across the board, there's no reason why we couldn't go deep again," he said.

"Luther Baker (equal 10th Henderson Medal 2019), Leigh Spiteri and Jake Ancrum are more than capable. They've [got] two flags under their belts and should want to be dominating."

Despite a quiet rescue effort in the marketplace throughout a difficult 2020, the Devils best 22 over recent weeks is beginning to take shape. Key defender *Matthew Brett (Werribee), mobile forward *Ryan Kemp (Werribee), inside-mid Stephen Doran (Point Cook) and Mitch Banner (VAFA) join dynamic small forward and Vic Metro representative Ben Said (St Albans) as the new faces at Darley Park. Just how often Brett and Kemp will be seen in Devils colours, however, is another question given their VFL affiliations.

There was more good news on the coaching front at Darley with the signing of popular local figure and former AFL champion Doug Hawkins, who will lead the Under 19's. Dean Chambers (Western Jets, ex-Werribee), will be another added bonus for the club following his Senior Assistant Coach appointment.

Additions aside, coach Roy will be holding the younger players accountable this year, given the club has blooded up to ten under-19 players over the past two seasons under Scotland.

"We're confident some of these boys are ready to impact games," he said.

"They should have the belief in themselves to start taking games on.”

To make finals this year, Darley will rely heavily on maintaining their impeccable record at home over the 2018 and 2019 seasons, with 16 wins and just two losses.

"Our destiny is in our own hands," Roy said.

"If we can improve our consistency on the road as well, it gives us every chance (of playing finals)."

Got it in one.

Trent Angwin (boxing), Bailey Waasdorp, Casey Young (AFL Barwon), Jackson Carrick (South Barwon), Ryan Ellis (Bendigo) are the other notable absentees from 2019.

*Affiliated players: Billy Myers (Williamstown), Nick Rodda (Williamstown), Matthew Brett (Werribee), Ryan Kemp (Werribee).

Roy's Tips

The Ballarat Football Netball League (BFNL) is pleased to announce the appointment of former AFL star Drew Petrie as Head Coach of the BFNL Under 23 Interleague team for the upcoming representative program.

A proud Ballarat product, Petrie began his football journey with the Ballarat Swans before being
selected with Pick 23 in the AFL Draft by the North Melbourne Football Club.

Petrie went on to enjoy a decorated AFL career spanning more than 300 games, becoming one of North Melbourne’s most respected figures across his 16 seasons at the club.

He later added to his career with a season at the West Coast Eagles before transitioning into coaching roles.

After spending the past nine years living and working in Perth within the AFL system, Petrie has recently returned to Victoria and is eager to reconnect with the Ballarat football community that helped shape his early career.

Petrie said he was excited by the opportunity to lead the BFNL’s emerging representative side.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to coach the BFNL Under 23 Interleague team this year.

When Paul Armstrong called to offer me the role, I didn’t hesitate.

It’s a privilege to represent the players and the league, and I’m committed to giving everything I can to the role.

After nine years in Perth, I’m also excited to be back in Victoria and reconnecting with the local football community that gave me so much as a kid, especially the Ballarat Swans.”

BFNL Director of Operations Paul Armstrong said Petrie’s appointment is a major boost for the league’s representative program.

“Having Drew on board is fantastic for the BFNL and a big boost to our Interleague program.

His experience at the highest level of the game, combined with his strong connection to Ballarat football, makes him an outstanding person to guide this group of players.”

BFNL Operations and Football Manager Tayla Banham highlighted the importance of having someone of Petrie’s experience involved with the league’s developing talent.

“Being able to have someone of Drew’s calibre involved in our program is incredibly valuable for the BFNL, and his connection to the region only strengthens that,”

“The Under 23 Interleague concept is something both the BFNL and the Hampden Football Netball League see as a really important pathway for young footballers who may not have come through the Talent League system or whose pathway finished there.”

“Opportunities to represent your region alongside players you normally compete against are rare once junior football finishes. It’s something special, and we’re grateful for the strong buy-in we continue to see from our clubs and players to make this program possible.”

Planning for the upcoming Under 23 Interleague campaign is already underway, with the BFNL looking forward to bringing together the league’s most promising young footballers to represent the region on the representative stage.

The Kangas led the comp in the last two seasons played, and while their draw for 2021 won’t be easy, East Point fans may yet get their ‘three-peat’. Scoop will keep serving up the pros and cons of the fixture for every BFNL club over the next few weeks.

East Point

Draw rating points: 105
2021 draw ranking: #8

PROS:Leave Ballarat just ONCE after round NINE - (Sunbury in Round 14)

CONS:  Back-to-back highway travel with AWAY games against Bacchus Marsh in Round 4 and Melton in Round 5

- Play FOUR of 2019 Finalists TWICE: Sebastopol, Sunbury, Melton, Redan

Comment: The Kangas were the best team in the comp in 2018 and 2019. They will be hard to beat again after retaining nearly all of the 2018 and 2019 Premiership teams in a bid for an amazing 'three-peat'. Their draw will ask enough of them in 2021 and given their number one standing in the competition so it should.

With preseason preparations well under way and Round 1 fast approaching, Scoop goes one-on-one with all 11 senior coaches ahead of the 2023 McDonalds BFNL season.

CLUB: East Point

COACH: Jackson Merrett (1st Season)

2022 Home & Away Record: 5th (10-6, 110.33%)

Scoop: Jackson, congratulations on your coaching appointment at the Kangas for 2023. Where did the interest in the job start, I mean you're still quite young (29) to be a head coach?

Jackson Merrett: When I finished up at Essendon four years ago, I knew I wanted to coach if/when the right opportunity presented.

S: While losing Mickitja Rottumah-Onus and Jacob Brown is not ideal - on paper you're still right in the premiership hunt. But it's fair to say the group has been 'up' for a while, including two flags in 2018 and 2019, how are the motivation levels?

JM: I'm confident the group will thrive under a new structured game plan. The young players too will add pressure to the selection table as we look to add more leg speed. It’s exciting times ahead for the club.

S: The Johnston brothers are bona fide A-Graders in the comp. Having seen plenty of footy over your journey, what impresses you most about them?

JM: Their will to win and get the most out of themselves. They drive standards and lead by example.

S: Brad Whittaker missed just about all of 2022 with a freakish leg injury – how is his return tracking?

JM: Brad had a setback before Christmas but with a measured build up over the remaining pre-season we're confident he'll be right to Round 1.

S:The Kangas have been blessed with quality juniors for some time now - is this the year we can expect you to experiment with a few more or are you more likely to go with 'the proven' until form says otherwise?

JM: We're keen to continue developing our next generation. I think we had as many as 10 debutants last year from our Under 19s. And look out for the emerging crop up from our Under 17s also (played in Grand Final versus Redan last season) - they haven't missed a session. We're excited about the potential growth of our first and second-year players.

S: What are some of the identified strengths of the club?

JM: The Cohesion and acceptance of the group regardless of age. They have a will to play for one another with a collective buy-in from everyone.

S: Where do you expect to see your projected improvement come from?

JM: Structured game plan across the board. For example, when challenged or under the pump we're all on the same page of what to do next. A couple of times last year we were blown out of the water in a single quarter and couldn't stop the bleeding. Also, an injection of leg speed will sharpen us up, especially in defence and on the wings.

S: How has pre-season training looked?

JM: We had a five-week block before Christmas. Then returned two nights a week since late January.

S: Who do you expect to be the biggest improvers this year? (Outside of your club)

JM: Sunbury

S: Who is your flag tip? (Outside of your club)

JM: Sebastopol will be the benchmark.

KEY INS:

M.Williams (Mt Clear Juniors)

PLAYER OUTS:

M.Rottumah-Onus (Mallee Tigers), J.Brown (Keilor), J.Maher, J.Gallagher, I.Quick.

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Nil

Scoop's East Point prediction: 4th - 6th

With the 2025 season on the horizon, Scoop has caught up with all our senior footy coaches as we build towards an epic Round 1!

Following a rollercoaster of an inaugural season under Joe Carmody, the Kangas will look to bounce back and go one better after a grand final defeat.

SCOOP: Joe, super effort last year to make the grand final and acquit yourselves well against the Bloods. How did the group process the season and grand final loss?

JOE CARMODY: On the whole a very encouraging year for us particularly in the area of individual growth. We were in the grand final up until very late in the game against a quality side in Melton. Plenty of upside to be drawn from the season moving forward.

S: What did you learn about the group in your first year and where you're at in the pecking order?

JC: Hard working with a willingness to get better. There's plenty of talent and quality youth at our club. Just knowing we can compete against any opposition gives us great confidence and belief.

S: East Point remain unbeaten at home since Round 16, 2023 (vs Sebastopol) - your club aside, which team (if any) do you feel has an old school, home ground advantage?

JC: Sunbury! As a player and a coach, I’ve been on the end of a few hidings over the years. You must defend or risk chasing the game on the big ground.

S: More players at East Point (15) averaged 16 or more disposals per game in 2024 - Sunbury (14), Ballarat (14), Melton (13), Darley (10). Is there anything to see here? What do those numbers tell you?

JC: A combination of a few things - the way we play, i.e. controlled possession. It also tells us we can win our own ball, trust the depth and the system.

S: While scoring power at East Point has been a feature for a number of years now - you must be rapt with the way the group embraced your team defence strategy after restricting Melton to 39 inside 50's in the Grand Final? Says a lot for the group's chances ahead of your second year in charge.

JC: The team defence remains a work in progress. While we showed signs of fatigue late in the season we didn't concede numbers of any major concern. It was more so we were unable to score as heavily on the back of that team defence as we would have liked. 

S: You lose promising young forward Strahan Robinson and the experience of Jordy Taylor - who picks up the slack?

JC: On Strahan's replacement option - we do like a fourth marking option forward so we're leaning to Joe Fraser, Ryder Lavery or Joel van Meel as the three (likely) rotating ruck options to spend time forward. If we go small Isaac Hucker or a promoted U/19 player could find their way in a pocket for example. And Jordy's replacement - well Liam Canny (21yo) is ready to go. We're confident he's going to be a super player for us over a long period. Joe Dodd will also see more minutes through the midfield as a result of Taylor's departure.  

S: You had the fewest number of players (32) of all last year’s finalists represent the club at senior level. Do you think it will take a similar "favourable' run with injury that will determine your fate - i.e. another grand final appearance or are you blessed with the luxury of the soldier in, soldier out theory?

JC: Lots of players were stiff to miss out last year but we stuck with the younger group to get more games into them rather than throwing them around. Hopefully that decision has built confidence levels on the back of the faith we have shown in them getting the job done.

S: Tell us about the newbies at the club and their likely roles....

JC: Jack Romeril - fit utility - not sure how much we'll see of Jack given his work commitments. Matt Romeril - Half-back / Mid option. Sam Romeril - Wing option that will allow Liam Canny to move into an on-ball role for us.

S: Given the longer season are you likely to rotate your midfield guns through the bench or stick with the 2024 theory of resting them forward?

JC: Well Matty and Jordy (Johnston), Jacko (Merrett) and Jacob (Brown) work it out between themselves if and when they decide to come off. Matty has proven how dangerous he can be resting forward with seven goals against the Lakers last year.

S: Who is likely to give Joel Van Meel a lending hand with the ruck duties this season? His output and willingness to compete in 2024 was something else....

JC: Yes, Joel's contribution played a large part in us making it as far we did. As for relief, Ryder Lavery (19yo) and Joe Fraser (21yo) will be given an opportunity when Joel needs a spell resting forward or off the bench.

PLAYER INS:

J. Romeril (Skipton), S. Romeril (Skipton), M. Romeril (Skipton)

PLAYER OUTS:

J. Taylor (Qld), S. Robinson (Port Fairy), T. Conlan (VAFA)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

N/A

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE:

March 22- vs Strathfieldsaye (A)

IMPROVERS TIP (OUTSIDE OF EAST):

JC: Redan

FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF EAST):

JC: Darley

With Round 1 fast approaching, Scoop has caught up with all ten senior footy coaches as they prepare for season 2026!

With some familiar faces departing Eastern Oval, it will take some next gen Roos to lead the way this year.

Scoop: Interesting off season for you Joe - how has the club processed the departures of four integral Premiership players?

Joe Carmody: All four were great servants of the club but we moved on pretty quickly to be honest. We have a new leadership group led by captain Liam Canny and a playing group who are invested in improving individually and collectively to take the club forward. Great opportunity for this group to take the club into a new era.

S: The next tier of seemingly bottomless talent at the Kangas will get their chance - who are you most excited about impacting games in 2026?

JC: We are very fortunate that when we lose players that we can bring in and develop players from our junior system. We think Kep Jones will be ready to make an impact straight away in the midfield. Jarrod Joyce showed last year that he has untapped potential. Alex Molan, Brodie Willems, Liam Howard, Jesse Cairns, Jack Jeffrey and Geordie Slater have now played three or four years of senior footy and are ready to go to the next level. Fraser Molan, Joe McGuane, Cooper Glenwright-McGuane, Sam McDonald, Dylan Hiscock and Zane Lubeek will all get their chance as well.

S: Does the loss of Bryson McDougall and the Johnston brothers in particular make it more difficult to send Jacob Brown behind the ball - is he your likely Bona fide forward alongside Jarrod Joyce?

JC: We will most likely settle with Brown and Joyce up forward. Jacob Brown kicked 50 goals last season and Jarrod Joyce was a standout in his first year in senior footy. We want to be more dynamic forward of the ball and having some of the youngsters at the fall of the ball will allow us to keep the ball inside 50 or provide greater pressure on the opposition when they try to exit our forward 50.

S: Tell us about the newbie from Cobden and his role/player type…

JC: Sam Lucas was a priority recruiting target for us last year. Key back that can defend and come off and intercept. He will provide plenty of rebound off half back. Strengthens our back six alongside Merrett, Cue, Howard, Geue, Lubeek, Fraser, Lual, etc. A high-quality person off field and has fit in seamlessly at the club.

S: Any chance we’ll see young gun Lachie Charleston make a return to his home club after a stint on Port Adelaide’s list or is it likely Werribee VFL will have the final say?

JC: Lachie is very keen to play at East Point when he can. He’s a real talent and a great young man with an infectious personality. We hope he has a great year at Werribee and that he can play at East Point when available.

AREAS OF IMPROVEMENT

JC: We lost to 3 clubs last year -Darley, Sunbury, and Melton. Our midfield got smashed in each of those losses both structurally and spread from the contest. We will look to have a more even contribution through the midfield to support Mickitja and Doddy. Greater defensive spread from the midfield and forward half are major areas of improvement that will allow us to create more scoring opportunities off turnover. 

INS & OUTS

In: L. Charleston (Port Adelaide AFL), T. Brown (Hepburn), J. Hogan (Hepburn), S. Lucas (Cobden), J. Marshall (Buninyong)

Out: S. Romerill (Modewarre), J. Van Meel (Dunnstown), B. McDougall (Springbank), J. Johnston (Nyah), M. Johnston (Darwin/Skipton)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS

Lachie Charleston (Werribee).

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE

March 7 - North Ballarat v East Point (next gen match sim)

March 21 - Strathfieldsaye v East Point

CLUB IMPROVERS TIP

JC: North Ballarat if they can stay healthy. Will be right up there with the additions of Lockett, Glover, and Brinker-Ritchie.

FLAG TIP

Darley – they still have a great mix of talented experience and youth.

SCOOP SAYS

Given the Kangas top end departures, some externally are expecting them to fall off the cliff, but I’m not so sure.

Expecting a development year to a large degree from Carmody’s group but they will be mighty hard to beat at home.

A finals berth would be a par with their outs - tipping there’s enough scope in their next gen talent to improve enough under the guidance of some experienced heads to sneak into finals. Anything thereafter a bonus in my book.

Projected finish: 5th-7th

In a move to further enhance the strength of the McDonalds Ballarat FNL operations, the league board have resolved to withdraw from the AFL Goldfields Independent Tribunal and implement a BFNL Independent Tribunal.

Following concerns and feedback from stakeholders of the Ballarat FNL, it was determined the judiciary process for all McDonalds Ballarat FNL competitions will be overseen by the new tribunal.

The move to establish a BFNL Independent Tribunal further enhances the management of issues and operations under the umbrella of the BFNL to ensure the correct and best outcomes are achieved as a priority for our member clubs.

The league has secured two co-chairs of the new tribunal with exceptional experience and standing within the sporting communities of Ballarat and Victoria.

Roger LeGrand is well known in the BFNL and surrounding leagues for his many years of experience as an umpire, coach and mentor that has seen his knowledge utilised at regional and state level.

Joining Roger as co-chair will be Peter Brady, current AFL Goldfields Independent Tribunal panel member, a leading administrator with many years’ experience in cricket circles and a sound knowledge of processes and procedures.

Roger and Peter will be joined by a panel of members made up of experience and understanding of community expectations, knowledge of football and the ability to independently assess matters presented to them.

The BFNL Independent Tribunal will operate at arm’s length to the Ballarat FNL with operational oversight provided by BFNL staff.

The announcement of the BFNL Independent Tribunal is an exciting step in the continual review of the Ballarat FNL to achieve best standards for clubs in the region.

The 2022 Federation BFLW Grand Finals will take over Mars Stadium tomorrow. Find all the Grand Final details below, including match times, parking information, entry details and match vision.

Watch the 2022 Federation BFLW Senior Grand Final LIVE from 1:20pm here: https://bit.ly/3KEBMY2

Federation BFLW Grand Finals – Event Information

Ahead of the first Federation BFLW Grand Final Day at Mars Stadium, please see some important information for supporters and attendees to be aware of:

General Information

• MARS Stadium – Creswick Road, Wendouree VIC
• Saturday 3rd September 2022
• The Federation BFLW Grand Finals will be an Alcohol-Free event.

Match Schedule

Admission Fees

BFLW Grand Final 2022

• Adults - $12
• Family (2 adults & 2 children) - $26
• Age Pensioner - $7
• 8 - 16yo - $5
• U/8 – Free
• Footy Record – $2

Note: Eftpos is available and encouraged as the preferred payment method.

Gates & Parking

• Gates open at 7:00am
• Entry into MARS Stadium via Gate 1 (only) located on Creswick Road.

Parking is available at the following locations:

• General Parking:
  • Creswick Road. No parking within concrete barriers stationed outside Gate 1.
  • Around Northern Oval 2. Entry via Beech Avenue ONLY – Cars will NOT be able to move between the North Ballarat Sports Club Carp Park & Northern Oval 2.
  • STRICTLY NO PARKING IN NORTH BALLARAT SPORTS CLUB.

• Disabled Parking:
  • Designated disabled parking can be accessed through North Ballarat Sports Club Entry.
  • PARKING MUST ONLY OCCUR IN DESIGNATED AREA AND IS FOR DISABLED PARKING ONLY.

Grand Final Filming

• All matches will be filmed with the Senior Women’s match being live streamed - link via Facebook and this website on the day.
• Matches will be available for purchase following the Grand Finals and further information will be provided around this in the coming weeks.

Live Scores

• All matches will be live scored on the day for those that are unable to attend the match. Scores can be accessed through specific competitions on the BFNL public results pages here - https://bit.ly/3Q4H8gg

The female player to coach program aims to provide opportunity for women to easily transition from a playing capacity into a coach. It aims to utilise resources and community connections to easily educate and develop female players. Ultimately, the program will ensure that females continue to contribute and thrive within the football community.

Part 1

1. State webinar series to explain the purpose of the program and generate interest. Guest panels will deliver sessions to identified female candidates.

• Webinar 1: Monday October 18th, 2021, 7pm
• Webinar 2: TBC (confirmed post webinar 1)
• Webinar 3: TBC (January – February period 2022)

Part 2

1. Online CoachAFL Foundation Course (Junior, Youth or Senior course) offered to all candidates
2. Regional workshop with high profile AFLW/VFLW female coach guest speaker. Link in with other stakeholders if possible
3. Regional/League based Club Coach Director/Coordinator information session
4. Follow up with an individual club information session (if required)

Part 3

1. Connect the candidate with a junior, youth or senior local club (depending on the players coaching interest) to formulate a “buddy coach” system to ensure the candidate is well supported and guided throughout the program
2. The “buddy Coach” implements training session and game day shadowing opportunities with the candidate.
3. AFL Victoria conducts a mid-season check in with the candidates and identifies the community clubs who haven’t been able to organise development opportunities and provides additional support where required
4. Post season, AFL Victoria continues to follow up with candidates to assist in the transition from female player to coach

Incentives for the Player becoming a coach

• Introductory session around Coach.afl and RM Coach led by AFL Victoria or state bodies
• Coach.AFL membership fee and foundation course offering waived by AFL Victoria
• Possible club-based incentives such as reduced playing subs for the season

Incentives for the Club to support transition of the player to coach

• AFL Vic led exclusive coaching sessions for clubs active in this area

Player to Coach - Recruiting Tips & Co-Coaching opportunities

Be open to flexibility - Some players may have work, family or study commitments that compete for their time. If you have a great coach who is keen to be involved but is only available for one training night a week, find a role that suits their level of time commitment.

Offer support within the role - It is important for female coaches to know they are supported. This enables confidence that they can take on the role. Show them how the club will back them and provide development.

Ask & Encourage - Be sure to approach potential coaches and promote an inclusive club culture. Engage current players to give them confidence to apply for the role.

Co-Coaching - If the player is new to coaching, offer the opportunity to pair up with an experienced coach as a mentor. Have them shadow an experienced coach at the club and allow them to see the game from a different perspective.

Resources - Providing the right resources to enable them to feel confident, asking questions of what they feel they need. It is important that the language around female coaches are inclusive, welcoming, and supports the coach.

Acknowledgement: Female Coaching Working Group. Members; Alicia Drew, Nick Eades, Eliza Straford, Shannon Gore, Mercedes Mathewson-Vardy, Grace Nicholls, Rebecca Herft, Jake McLean, Tara Tolios & Rick Coburn