BREAKING: Moama’s future in netball just took a significant turn as the Bendigo Football-Netball League (BFNL) announces a new 15-and-under netball competition starting next year. This development could potentially pave the way for Moama’s entry into the BFNL by 2027, enhancing the appeal of the league to young athletes and clubs.
The BFNL is expanding its netball offerings to include six grades, with the addition of the 15-and-under division complementing existing categories like A Grade and B Grade, as well as the 17-and-under divisions. This strategic move aims to create a clearer talent pathway for junior athletes, aligning major league senior and junior netball with grassroots programs.
“We’ve listened to feedback from our clubs and the wider netball community, and there’s a clear demand for more competition options in this age bracket,” said BFNL manager Tom King.
According to King, the new competition will not only provide more playing opportunities for young athletes but also help retain talented players in the region. Moama has been exploring a move from the Murray league to a more competitive environment, specifically targeting the BFNL or Goulburn Valley League.
Scott Slater, Moama’s club president, indicated that while no firm decisions have been made, the BFNL is now the preferred option. “If we do anything, it will be in the Bendigo direction,” Slater stated. This shift aligns with the club’s goal to connect its athletes with the Bendigo Strikers and Bendigo Pioneers talent pathways.
Any transition for Moama to join the BFNL can’t occur until 2027 at the earliest, as AFL Victoria has set a deadline of June 30 for clubs wishing to transfer leagues. Slater emphasized the importance of presenting a solid case to club members before making any decisions.
The introduction of the 15-and-under netball competition enhances the attractiveness of the BFNL for Moama, particularly as the Murray league currently only offers an under-17 football division. This situation often leads to local players migrating to the Echuca under-18s, highlighting the need for Moama to join a league with a stronger age structure.
In addition to Moama’s potential move, the BFNL is also preparing for the arrival of Broadford, which will join the competition next year. Meanwhile, Castlemaine has already announced its coach for the new 15-and-under team, marking a significant expansion for the league.
The Central Victorian Netball Association (CVNA) is also launching a new premier competition and 21-and-under division next winter, reflecting the growing demand for structured pathways in netball. CVNA chair Mandy Hutchinson stated that this initiative aims to secure the future of netball in central Victoria and provide development opportunities for athletes, coaches, and umpires.
As Moama prepares for potential changes, the club will be jointly-coached by Shannon Keam, former coach of Leitchville-Gunbower, and ex-AFL player Jake Carlisle. This leadership could further enhance Moama’s position as it navigates its future in competitive netball.
With the BFNL’s new initiatives and Moama’s aspirations for growth, the landscape of netball in the region is set for an exciting transformation. As developments unfold, all eyes will be on Moama as they work towards a future that could see them competing among the best in the Bendigo Football-Netball League.
