BREAKING: The introduction of a new 15-and-under netball competition next year is set to significantly elevate Moama’s chances of joining the Bendigo Football-Netball League (BFNL). This urgent announcement from the BFNL expands the league’s netball offerings to six grades, including two under-age divisions, and is poised to reshape the landscape of junior netball in the region.
The league’s decision, confirmed earlier today, aims to create a clear talent pathway for junior athletes, aligning major league senior and junior netball with grassroots programs. BFNL manager Tom King stated, “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.”
The addition of the 15-and-under competition is not just about increasing participation; it directly impacts Moama’s future prospects. Over the past year, Moama has been assessing its future, eyeing a potential move to a major league—either the BFNL or the Goulburn Valley league. Club president Scott Slater emphasized that while no final decision has been made, the recent developments make Bendigo a more appealing option.
“I’d think that if we do anything it will be in the Bendigo direction,” Slater said on Monday.
Slater also highlighted the importance of aligning with the talent pathways offered by the Bendigo Strikers netball and Bendigo Pioneers football programs. He noted, “Our priority has always been to try to align more with the zone of our talent pathways.” This strategic move could lead Moama to officially join the BFNL as early as 2027, pending a members’ vote and the completion of necessary assessments.
The urgency surrounding this decision is palpable as the AFL Victoria deadline for league transfers is set for June 30. Slater pointed out, “We don’t want to rule anything out because at the end of the day it will be a members vote, but we have to make sure that we present a solid case for the pros and cons of a move any direction.”
Furthermore, the new competition addresses a pressing issue for Moama: the lack of an under-18 football division. Currently, the Murray league’s top age group is under-17s, which often results in players migrating to the neighboring Echuca under-18s. Transitioning to the BFNL would not only permit Moama to compete in under-18, but it would also provide a unique advantage over local rivals.
As Moama considers this pivotal change, the club will be led next year by co-coaches Shannon Keam and former AFL player Jake Carlisle. The strategic coaching appointments reflect a commitment to building a competitive team that capitalizes on these new opportunities.
While Moama is contemplating its future with the BFNL, it is important to note that Broadford is set to join the competition next year, although they have declared they won’t be playing in Bendigo by 2026. In contrast, Castlemaine has already announced its coach for the new 15-and-under netball team, with Rachelle McLean at the helm.
In addition to the BFNL developments, the Central Victorian Netball Association (CVNA) is launching a new premier competition and 21-and-under division for the upcoming winter season. This initiative aims to enhance development opportunities for athletes, coaches, and umpires across the region.
CVNA chair Mandy Hutchinson remarked, “This premier competition is about securing the future of netball in central Victoria. It’s about giving our athletes, coaches, and umpires every opportunity to develop while ensuring netball remains inclusive, accessible, and community-driven.”
As the 2027 target year approaches, all eyes will be on Moama as they navigate their potential transition into the BFNL, armed with new competition structures and a vision for future success.
