URGENT UPDATE: Maiden Gully YCW has just presented its ambitious plan to join the Bendigo Football Netball League (BFNL) starting in 2027. This significant move aims to elevate the club from the Loddon Valley league and was shared during a pivotal meeting with BFNL officials and club representatives at La Trobe University on Thursday night.
For years, the Eagles have expressed their desire to compete at a higher level, making this presentation a crucial step in their journey. The club’s leadership emphasized their readiness to tackle the challenges ahead, despite needing to navigate AFL Victoria’s transfer process, similar to unsuccessful attempts by Gisborne earlier this year.
Carol McKinstry, BFNL chair, acknowledged the thoroughness of Maiden Gully YCW’s presentation, which highlighted the club’s strengths, junior participation, and future plans for both football and netball. “It was a very professional presentation,” she stated, noting that the process allows clubs to consider the potential integration of new members into the league.
While 2027 is set as the target year, Maiden Gully YCW faces significant challenges on the field. The Eagles have not reached senior finals in the Loddon Valley league since 2019 and have a disappointing record of 23 wins and 53 losses over their last 75 matches. Their reserves have struggled, winning only four games in the past two seasons. However, a silver lining exists: their under-18 team clinched the premiership in its first season back, indicating potential for growth.
In netball, the Eagles have a rich history, but their recent performance has dipped. After winning back-to-back A-grade championships in 2022 and 2023, the A-grade side finished seventh in both 2024 and 2025. With a total of 28 premierships across all grades since 2010, the club is eager to regain its former glory.
Coached by Shawn Filo and former AFL player Angus Monfries, the Eagles are strategically positioned to enhance competitiveness as they aim for the BFNL. The league itself may transform by 2027, with Broadford entering next season and Moama also expressing interest in joining.
Moama’s president, Scott Slater, confirmed that while no decision has been made regarding the club’s future beyond 2026, the introduction of a 15-under netball competition in the BFNL next season could sway their decision. Other clubs are also eyeing potential moves to the BFNL, indicating a growing interest in the league despite recent challenges, including the loss of Kyneton to the Riddell District league.
As Maiden Gully YCW works toward a June 30 deadline next year for their transfer process, the club is keenly aware of the competitive landscape ahead. In the meantime, Broadford has announced that their pre-season training will kick off on November 10, 2023, under the guidance of senior coach Nathan Thompson.
As developments unfold, the future of Maiden Gully YCW and potential new entrants into the BFNL will be closely watched. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving story.
