UPDATE: The Bendigo Football Netball League (BFNL) has swiftly announced its intention to appeal the transfer request from the Gisborne Football Netball Club to join the Ballarat Football Netball League. This urgent development comes just hours after Gisborne club members voted overwhelmingly in favor of the move.
At a critical meeting held on October 25, 2023, Gisborne members expressed their desire to leave the BFNL and join Ballarat, following a similar vote by Ballarat clubs supporting the Bulldogs’ transition. The BFNL’s immediate response confirms their commitment to keeping Gisborne within their league, citing the club’s integral role in the community and the competition.
In an official statement released late Wednesday, the BFNL declared, “The BFNL remains steadfast in believing that the Gisborne FNC is an integral part of the League’s competition and community and is committed to pursuing all available avenues to ensure the club’s continued participation in the BFNL.”
The league emphasized its responsibility to maintain the strength and stability of the competition, arguing that Gisborne’s involvement is vital for the health of local clubs, players, volunteers, and supporters. The BFNL plans to follow all relevant processes set by AFL Victoria in addressing this transfer request.
Gisborne president Tony Brancatisano expressed hope that the BFNL would respect the club’s wishes to move. “Why keep someone in the competition that doesn’t want to be there?” he stated. Brancatisano highlighted that the club is owned by its players and members, noting, “We’ve given them a solid 25 years. They need to look north for teams.”
As this situation unfolds, Gisborne is focusing on achieving on-field success while navigating the complexities of the transfer process. The appeal from the BFNL introduces new challenges, affecting both the club’s future and the broader landscape of local football in the region.
What happens next remains uncertain, but the eyes of the community and football enthusiasts are on this developing story. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation progresses.
