News

Anthony Koutoufides has been confirmed to lead the Ballarat Football League when it takes on Hampden Football League in a resurgence of representative football on July 1st, 2023.

Koutoufides was named back in 2020 to lead the charges before everything was shut down due to COVID-19.

Upon recent discussions with the Carlton great, he was more than willing to fulfil the role again owing the whole situation as unfinished business in a sense.

League Chairman Adrian Bettio noted that the inclusion of “Kouta” as head coach would be great exposure for prospective players from the BFNL to play under and for one of the games great.

“Anthony will be a great inclusion to our interleague program in 2023. His knowledge and expertise will give the players a real boost to not only perform at this level, but to take back to their home clubs only strengthening our competition,” Bettio said

Kouta will go head to head with Hampden royalty with Jonathon Brown headlining their interleague squad.

“Browny” as he is more affectionately known has been at the helm of HFNL for previous seasons and this clash right here in Ballarat should be one to be witnessed.

The 2023 format which will see the game played at Mars Stadium on July 1, under 23 will be the headline act showcasing the talent both leagues have on offer.

Both leagues agreed upon running an under 23 competitions for 2023 to expose the talent within who have missed out on representative football over the past 3 years.

Further announcements regarding assistant coaches will be made shortly, along with squads for the game.

The Lakers will be looking to get some wins in early as their 2021 draw sees them play the first seven rounds in Ballarat. Scoop will keep serving up the pros and cons of the fixture for every BFNL club over the next few weeks.

Lake Wendouree

Draw rating points: 104
2021 draw ranking: #7

Play TWICE:North Ballarat City, Ballarat, Sebastopol, Redan, Bacchus Marsh, Melton

Travel EAST:THREE times - Bacchus Marsh (Rd8), Sunbury (Rd10), Melton (Rd18)

EAST 'highway travel' record (2018 & 2019 home and away seasons):Played 8 Won 2 Lost 6 @25% win rate

PROS:Do not leave Ballarat until Round EIGHT (v. Bacchus Marsh)

- Only THREE highway trips EAST for the season facing Bacchus Marsh in Round 8, Sunbury in Round 10 and Melton in Round 18

- Meet only THREE finalists from 2019 TWICE (Sebastopol, Redan, Melton)

CONS: FOUR away games in SIX rounds between Round 7 and Round 12, with Redan in Round 7, Bacchus Marsh in Round 8, Sunbury in Round 10 and North Ballarat in Round 12

Comment:Lake Wendouree will be hoping to upset a few teams who don't turn up to play. The Lakers will need to start well and be near square on the ledger before they leave Ballarat for the first time in Round 9 for Bacchus Marsh. Just the three highway trips and avoiding playing East Point twice is also a plus to draw on.

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: Lake Wendouree

COACH: Jack Fitzpatrick (2nd Season)

2022 Home & Away Record: 11th (1-15, 57.63%)

Scoop: Well Jack, clean slate, year two, here we go! While it wasn't the best season for the club in 2022 what were your impressions of the wider competition (on-field) in your first year?

Jack Fitzpatrick: Standard was good. I think we're starting to regain momentum out of the covid period. The Ballarat Football Netball League would be more than competitive against most other country leagues if not all.

S: It's encouraging to see the club has attracted a handful of new talent over the off-season - tell us about them....

JF: Well they all come from different areas with different ideas which is exciting. We've added a blend of youth and experience we're confident will add to our ball use depth.

S: Nearly all of your progressive young talent has remained at the club - how do you, given your experience, ensure they continue to get better?

JF: It doesn't happen automatically; it really is up to them. I can only guide them. They will get their rewards as a player more often, from what they put in.

S: There's a wrap around on new 200cm ruckman Tom Zampatti (St Josephs, GFL) - do you plan on spending considerable time with him on the teaching front given your skillset or will you just let him do his thing?

JF: While he's moving well, I won't be overburdening him - he's come off a couple of serious knee injuries. We just want to see him enjoying his footy and see what he can do first - let him find his feet. We'll go from there.

S: One-win seasons are tough. What did you learn in your first year at the Lakers - about coaching for one and secondly the club?

JF: As a coach - finding ways to stay in games for longer - we really took it up to Sebastopol (2nd) and Ballarat (3rd) but could not sustain it for the entire four quarters.

On the club front - you wouldn't have known at training we were a one-win team - the feeling around the group was always positive. We're not defined by wins and losses, rather identifying something out of each game to improve on the following week.

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

JF: We’re solid around the ball and on the inside

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

JF: Minimising errors that impact scores against. Better ball use. Being in games for longer.

S: How has pre-season training looked?

JF: Cold, wet nights in the middle of Summer was a strange experience! That aside, it was pleasing to see the boys had done the work over the break. That can only improve our progress.

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

JF: Sunbury.

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

JF: Melton - defending champs, impressive outfit.

KEY INS:

Michael Foster (Donald), Tom Zampatti (St Josephs), Flynn Loader (GWV Rebels), Liam Holmes (South Barwon), Matthew Mcculloch (Taylors Lakes), Aiden Laffy (Horsham Demons), Tyler Davis (North Ballarat)

PLAYER OUTS:

F.Greene (Hawthorn), R.Emerson-Jones (Bungaree), C.Brennan (Overseas), M.Phillips (Moved to Melbourne)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Nil

Scoop's Lake Wendouree prediction: 9th - 11th

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!

Finally, It's Rohan Brown back at the helm for the Lakers as they look for vast improvement across the board with a strong group coming through together.

SCOOP: Last year Angus Gove made a comment on 'The Presser' the group was done being referred to as 'young and developing'. Do you echo those sentiments ahead of your second season in the job?

ROHAN BROWN: Absolutely, we all do. What's young these days anyway? Everyone is young to a degree. There'll be no excuses from our group as most prepare for their third and fourth season of senior footy. Time for these boys to stand up at the BFNL level.

S: Jaydo Wright is a versatile, interesting work in progress at the BFNL level, capable of breaking open a game. In what role do you see him as most beneficial to the side? 

RB: Down back as an intercept defender this year and a fifth mid option depending on how we're travelling. Jaydo has had an injury free pre-season, and we're excited about what he can deliver.

S: Bailey Thompson is a freakish talent. How does he manage to get off the chain and continue hitting the scoreboard regardless of the opposition?

RB: Well, he's underestimated for a start and has what every player wants - SPEED. Bailey finished third in our club B&F last year and deserved a train-on invitation with Essendon VFL over the Summer. He's now at Port Melbourne VFL with Brendan McCartney gaining more experience.

S: How do you go about coaching a side to 'stay in games for longer'? Has there been a focus on team defence over the Summer or have you explored building on other avenues to score? 

RB: It's been a balanced approach. I think it's more about maturity and leadership 'in game' that can identify shifts in momentum. Capitalise when in favour but minimise damage when against - ie back-to-back goals which we were victims of far too often last season.

S: Have you managed to find an extra experienced quality mid to aid ruckman Tom Zampatti and your depth stocks at ground level and around the ball?

RB: Jake Lohmann - while we hope he gets his chance at Werribee we'll welcome him into our side with open arms. Jake is nearing his prime now in his mid 20s.

S: In a nutshell tell us about the players you have added over the Summer and their projected roles...

RB: Liam Hepworth (key forward target), Lincoln Koliba (exciting 17 yo mid-forward), Jake Lohmann (classy mid), Jed Knight (defensive role), Jake Millen (inside mid) and Nathan Haliburton looks a progressive type up from our Under 19 premiership team.

S: What player type(s) were sort after in the marketplace you were unable to fill?

RB: Doesn't every club want another key forward and classy mid?

S: Which player(s) can we expect to rise a level and impact games against quality opposition?

RB: Will Clark (mid) and Timmy Collins (mid) have had super pre-seasons and should be ready to go to the next level.

S: What would validate a successful year on field for the footy club?

RB: Winning as many games as we can.

S: Ahead of your second year in charge - what was to like most of the group in your first season?

RB: Very united and close group willing to compete and crack in despite recent struggles on win/loss front. Essentially, they're a good bunch of mates!

PLAYER INS

L. Hepworth (Cairns), L. Koliba (Rebels), J. Lohmann (Morningside QAFL), J. Knight (Waubra), J. Millen (SA)

PLAYER OUTS

M. Foster (retired), B. Hayes (retired)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS

Jake Lohmann (Werribee)

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE

March 15 vs Port Fairy @ Derrinallum

IMPROVERS TIP (OUTSIDE OF LAKERS)

RB: Sunbury

FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF LAKERS)

RB: Melton

Next up in Scoop's club-by-club predictions for the season ahead is Lake Wendouree. The marquee signing of VFL star Nick Rippon is a big boost to a transitioning list and coach Dale Power will be looking to his Lakers to hit the scoreboard with greater frequency in 2021.

Lake Wendouree

Scoop's 2021 prediction: 9th - 11th

EXPECT 2015 JJ Liston Trophy winner Nick Rippon to headline up to six new faces for Lake Wendouree in 2021. The 26-year-old ball magnet boasts an award-winning VFL career with North Ballarat and more recently North Melbourne.

Remarkably, Rippon appeared in the best players in 47 of his 75 VFL games dating back to 2014.

Lakers Coach Dale Power who enters his fourth season in charge, was stoked with the clubs’ marquee signing.

"Nick's a former Ballarat junior, he's a great get for us," he said.

"For a player as decorated as him to join the club is pretty significant."

At 176cm Rippon, who won the inaugural John Laws Medal in 2018 in North Melbourne's first standalone year in the VFL competition, will play the entire 2021 season with the Lakers having passed on a likely VFL return due to uncertainty around the second-tier competition at present.

Led by Rippon and 2019 Club Best and Fairest Jake Coxall, the Lakers midfield will be eyeing first use out of the middle.

Newcomers Lachlan Pfeifer (Beaufort - inside mid), Angus Gove (St Michaels - mid/forward), Tom LeLievre (Beaufort - forward/mid), Zane Thompson (QLD, ex-Beaufort - small forward) and Timothy Collins (Dunnstown - forward-mid) are hopeful of bridging the gap left by outgoing talent Bailey Edwards and former Henderson Medallist and multiple club Best and Fairest Ben Taylor.

"They're huge shoes to fill," Power said.

"It's unfortunate, but we understand their reasons for leaving," he said of losing Edwards and Taylor.

"Ben has travelled for 10 years and has had enough, while Bailey has work commitments."

While Taylor's reliability and footy smarts will be sorely missed, it's Bailey's speed and line breaking you can't replace according to Power.

"He's a 70-metre player," he said.

Werribee VFL listed player Scott Carlin (Warrnambool DFNL) and Kyran Raven (CHFL) have also left the club.

Brayden Helyar (Horsham, Geelong VFL) returns to Ballarat for University and joins the Lakers after being delisted at Geelong. The 21-year-old has pace to burn with his 6’2 frame, opening the door for Power to explore his options.

"He (Helyar) could easily play on a wing," he said.

The club was also thrilled to announce that former Western Bulldog (now Box Hill) *Fergus Greene has chosen the Lakers as his feeder club for the coming season. The 23-year-old, who played five AFL games in 2018 with the Doggies still has aspirations to play at the highest level. Coach Power told members on the club’s Facebook page that having a player of Fergus' ability join the ranks doesn't happen very often and he can't wait to see him Lakers colours. Given the 187cm talent is hopeful of luring the attention of AFL clubs with Box Hill in the VFL, any sighting of Greene would be a massive bonus. 

Meanwhile, the Lakers focus for the impending 2021 season will turn to hitting the scoreboard, after disappointing returns in 2019. Nathan Pring (18) and Jacob Coxall (15) were the clubs leading goalkickers.

*Affiliated players: Jacob Loman (North Melbourne), Fergus Greene (Box Hill)

Power's Tips

The Ballarat FNL wishes to make the following statement regarding the Sebastopol Football Netball Club's Under 17 Senior Football side.

The Under 17 Senior Team of the Sebastopol Football Netball Club (Sebastopol) was provisionally suspended by the League pending the outcome of an investigation on 7 May 2024.

On Monday 27 May 2024, the provisional suspension was subject to legal proceedings in the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria.

The League and Sebastopol would like to advise that the Magistrates’ Court has found the League made errors in its handling of the investigation and the imposition of the provisional suspension.

Consequently, the provisional suspension of the Sebastopol Under 17 Senior Team has been lifted.
The team will be available to return to play this weekend.

The League and Sebastopol would like to thank all Sebastopol players, parents, and supporters for their patience and understanding.

In particular, the League and Sebastopol recognise the maturity and positive attitude of the Sebastopol Under 17 Senior players in these challenging past few weeks.

The League acknowledges its error in provisionally suspending the Under 17 Senior and affirms its commitment to adhering to its policies and processes and to learning from this experience.

Both the League and Sebastopol also wish to confirm their commitment to providing a safe and positive environment for players, umpires, officials and spectators alike so that they can experience our great game of Australian rules football to the fullest extent in a positive manner.

Season 2021 is just four days away, and amongst those expected to be in the action at the end of the home and away season are the Sunbury Lions. The loss of serious firepower up forward has created opportunities for emerging talent, and Scoop is reserving judgement on how the Lions will shape up as the scoreboard will tell the story.

Sunbury

Scoop’s 2021 prediction: 4th - 6th

EXPECT Sunbury's enviable depth and impressive record at home to be tested in the anticipation of a repeat finals appearance in 2021.

Questions loom large of a Lions forward line that was once plentiful of options. Sunbury's forward stocks are looking depleted at best, given four of their leading five goalkickers from 2019 have moved on. Lachie Bramble (leading goalkicker with 21 goals) will miss all local footy after Hawthorn added the talented midfielder to their AFL list, while Jack Landt (20), Jack Sheehan (13) and Jarrah Maksymow (13) have also left the building. Only half-forward Alec Goodsen (19) remains. The fact is, 77 goals (including Dylan Landt’s 10) out of a season total of 180 kicked in 2019, a massive 44 per cent of the 2019 tally, is a lot to lose.

If that wasn't enough for a hungry Lions list to overcome, star midfielder Mitch Conn faces a weekly fly-in, fly-out scenario after the club confirmed his partner had been promoted and transferred to Sydney for work.

Lions coach Travis Hodgson concedes that while not ideal overall, recent events have been beyond the club’s control.

"While we're in good knick and [have] done near everything right, you can never predict the unpredictable," he said.

"We're still hopeful that on the back of our off-season recruits and growth of our younger blokes [that] the fight for spots remains a healthy one."

In some good news for Lions fans, Hodgson did confirm the recent signing of star ruckman David Kovacevic (St Albans) on a part-time basis to aid top five 2019 Best and Fairest finisher Jayden Eales.

"Eales has been very good for us and adding Kovacevic just takes the pressure off a bit in such a demanding position on the ground, especially in the BFNL," Hodgson said.

"We expect to gain eight to ten games out of a gun who I'm sure everyone who follows BFNL would be familiar with.

“There's no dispute with Kovacevic – A-Grader!"

Sunbury had gained the services of former Port Power Physiotherapist Andrew Hall to run the fitness program pre-COVID; a decision that has already an impact on some of the established stars at the club.

"[Alik] Magin is flying, and new recruit Daniel Toman looks super fit and ready to go," Hodgson said.

Toman (Port Melbourne, Bendigo Gold, Woodend) will slot straight into the midfield, while other newbies, namely Haydn Ross (Riddell - forward/mid), *Harrison Milton-Connell (Port Melbourne, Calder Cannons) and Aaron Christenson (return) will provide the support network for Magin and Jayden Eales. Boom signing Tyson Lever (Coburg) is expected to hold down the number one role in defence at centre half back.

Ross, on the other hand, who was earmarked for a role in the midfield, could find himself forward to fill a shortage of recognised goal scorers. At Riddell in 2018, Ross booted 79 goals to finish the RDFL's leading goalkicker. It’s a move that makes sense.

Unfortunately for the Lions, inside-mid Greg Hay and key swingman Jack Sheehan have opted for another year off. Sources say Hay and Sheehan did not miss footy as much as they thought they would in 2020, joining seasoned campaigners Grant Valles (Old Xaviers), Daylan Kempster (Keilor Park/travel), Jarrah Maksymow (Albury), Jack Landt (Dimboola), Dylan Landt (Doutta Stars), Nathan Bridgland (Riddell) and Will Healy (Sunbury Kangaroos) on a mounting exit list.

There are also confirmed reports that 186cm young gun and 2020 Lions signing Jake Sutton is SANFL bound, most likely to Central Districts. The 19-year-old leaves the club without playing a single game.

But with loss comes opportunity, according to Hodgson.

"There's a real chance for our young talent to step up," he said.

"Luke Goater, Thomas Werner and Jacob Bygate will get their chance."

The Lions have made Clarke Oval a nightmare for visitors over the past two seasons, having won 15 of their last 16 games. Ironically, seven of eight wins at home in 2018 wasn't enough to secure a finals berth. Unbeaten at home in 2019 and a fourth placing on the table with eleven season wins, these Lions are coming with a feverish appetite to improve on the road in 2021 (noting that they won just four of the last 16 games across 2018 and 2019, running at just 25 per cent at the pointy end of the home and away).

For the keen observer weighing progress, we lie in wait, holding judgment and with a cheeky eye fixed fairly on the scoreboard, as there are some undeniable big outs.

* Affiliated players: Harrison Milton-Connell (Port Melbourne), Josh Guthrie (Coburg).

Hodgson's Tips

With the announcement today of an extension to the current lockdown across Victoria, the McDonald's Ballarat FNL provides an update on all competitions.

SENIOR Competition

The senior football and netball competition will continue to be ‘paused’ at this stage and will resume Round 11 effective from the date of an approved return to competition. This will ensure all clubs have played each other once and the same number of byes. 

JUNIOR Competition

Junior football and netball will have the round scheduled for Sunday 25thJuly 2021 abandoned and removed from the fixture. 

The competitions will restart from the fixtured games as at the date a return to play has been announced. 

BFLW Competitions

As with junior football and netball, all BFLW grades will have the round scheduled for Sunday 25thJuly 2021 abandoned and removed from the fixture. 

The competitions will restart from the fixtured games as at the date a return to play has been announced. 

As further details become available, the league will assess the competitions to ensure the 2021 season can be completed. 

END RELEASE 

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL announces impacts to the various competitions in light of today’s announcement from the Victorian Government. 

The state government has today announced a state-wide lockdown effective from 8:00pm tonight through to 11:59pm Thursday 12thAugust, which will affect the Ballarat FNL competitions from this weekend. 

Detailed below is the impact this lockdown has on the various BFNL competitions and how they will be managed. 

McDONALD'S BFNL SENIOR COMPETITION 

The senior competition will not proceed with round 12 this weekend. This round will be cancelled and not replaced. 

Impacts on further scheduled rounds will be determined as further details are provided by the government over the coming days to indicate a likelihood of when football and netball may return to competition. 

McDONALD'S BFNL JUNIOR COMPETITION 

The junior competition will not proceed with this weekend round of football and netball, which will also be cancelled and not replaced. 

As per the senior competition, the league will await advice on when competition football and netball can return to determine the pathway forward. 

All options will be considered by the league regarding the final home and away round, and finals as further information becomes available. 

McDELIVERY BFLWOMEN'S 

The BFLW competition will not proceed with this weekend round of football, which will also be cancelled and not replaced. 

As per the senior competition, the league will await advice on when competition football can return to determine the pathway forward. 

All options will be considered by the league regarding the final home and away round, and finals as further information becomes available. 

Information will be provided as it is made available and allow us to work towards a conclusion to the 2021 competitions across football and netball. 

This centre will run on Thursday’s from 5:00pm – 6:00pm at Bacchus Marsh Racecourse and Recreation Reserve (BMRRR), Maddingley.

• Price: $40 
• Season is 5 weeks from March 2nd – March 30th
• No specialist clothing required (football boots not required)
• Own hat & water bottle required at each session
• Sessions will be run by an expert AFL Victoria coach
• Modified Pack included for every registered participant: Size 1 Auskick Football & pump

All participants will receive a $40 voucher should they wish to sign up for community Auskick in 2023 following this program! (The $40 price paid essentially turns into a voucher for 2023 Community Auskick).

The McDonalds Ballarat FNL is excited to announce grand finals at Mars Stadium have been secured for the next three years across all competitions.

Working with the City of Ballarat, the BFNL is pleased to announce that for the next three years, there will be consecutive weekends of grand final football and netball showcasing what is undoubtedly the premier competitions in the region.

From 2021, the first week of September will see the relaunched BFLWomens competition stage grand finals at Mars Stadium, a return to the premier venue for what will be the premier female competition in regional Victoria. 

The support of councils Active Womens & Girls  Strategy to which the Ballarat FNL has aligned will enhance the growth and participation of female football at all levels across the City of Ballarat.

The following Sunday will see the traditional hosting of the junior grand finals for football and netball with a total of 14 grand finals across both competitions in a huge day for junior competition.

To cap off a busy September, the Carlton Draught Finals Series will conclude with grand final day to determine the best senior football and netball teams of the season.

We thank the City of Ballarat for the ongoing support of the Ballarat FNL and BFLWomens competitions, strengthening a long standing partnership.

We continue the countdown to the senior season with Scoop's club-by-club predictions for North Ballarat. New coach Brendan McCartney is impressing all comers at Mars with his cool and calm approach. Never one to give too much away, it appears he is pretty happy with where his team is at since his return to local competition.

North Ballarat

Scoop’s 2021 prediction: 4th - 8th

EXPECTa healthy North Ballarat list to give itself every chance of returning to the September finals action that eluded them in 2019. But it won't be easy. Eleven doesn't go into six, unfortunately, as each club makes their finals intentions clear. New coach and marquee signing Brendan McCartney however, is pretty relaxed ahead of Round One.

"We're in a good space at the moment, numbers on the track have been encouraging," he said.

“I'm hoping we're in much better shape (than 2019).”

Injured ball magnets Daniel Jones (knee), 2019 Club Best and Fairest winner Simon McCartin (osteitis pubis), Tim Spiers (knee) and big man Cam McCallum (knee) are all on track for a 2021 return.

Add the 2020 pre-COVID signings of Sam Glover (Collingwood VFL) and Thomas Hotchin (North Melbourne VFL) into the mix for a 2021 tilt, along with midfield acquisitions Jonathon O’Brien (Springbank - 190cm) and 25-year-old Joey Symonds (North Ballarat VFL) who returns to the game after a three year lay-off. Glover is a bona fide gun (key position) but is unlikely to be regularly pulling on the City guernsey on a weekend given his recent VFL form with the Pies. Hotchin faces a similar scenario, leaving O'Brien the seasoned campaigner to join the midfield group on a weekly basis.

But who knows what is going to happen with the revamped VFL competition and North Ballarat could well be the beneficiaries of any potential fall-out, raising their finals claims in the process.

Mitch Johns also returns to the club, Josh McDermott (Beaufort/Lake Wendouree) will add to the ruck stocks, while the club also has 14 players who are no longer eligible for the Under 19’s and who aim to make the grade in the senior comp.

This is where you would expect McCartney to thrive - converting young talent into senior roles, given his reputation and experience in the AFL over many years.

According to McCartney the young blokes have been terrific.

"Their commitment this far out has been brilliant," he said.

"But boys against men (the prospect of senior footy), we won't know how far each have come.

"Three practice matches against quality GFL sides leading in will be give us a fair indication."

City have lost key forward Will Young (Caroline Springs), small inside mid Mitch Gilbert (Skipton), Interleague representative defender Ben Simpson (Geelong way), under-rated Sam Willian (Skipton) and James Sclanders (Skipton). 

Young especially is a huge loss for the club, but three years travelling from Melbourne had finally taken its toll.

Can North Ballarat hit the scoreboard enough in 2021 to warrant a return to finals? They’ll be coming from a fair way back given natural improvement across the competition. Young has been their leading goal scorer over the past three seasons, with his lowest return (24 goals) coming in 2019. Youngsters Izaac Johnson (21) and Harry Loader (12) were next best, highlighting the challenges forward of centre, not to mention their poor record in the 'EAST' involving highway travel - just one win from eight trips in 2018/19 and a competition travel ranking of #10).

*Affiliated players: Sam Glover (Collingwood VFL), Thomas Hotchin (North Melbourne VFL)

McCartney's Tips

The Ballarat FNL and McDonald’s are proud to announce its renewed partnership for another five seasons as the major sponsor of the league.

Since joining the league as its naming partner in 2017, McDonald’s has been instrumental in supporting the wider Ballarat community, helping grow grassroots sports from strength to strength.

We are thrilled to have McDonald’s on board as a partner for the coming five seasons,” said BFNL Operations & Netball Manager, Gemma Murphy.

“By having McDonald’s on board, the league will go from strength to strength. The Ballarat Football Netball League are incredibly happy with the support from McDonald’s, and we look forward to a great season ahead.”

“We are very excited to sign another five-year deal and continue to assist the success and growth of both football and netball within the region,” said McDonald’s Anthony Nigro.

The 2024 McDonald’s Ballarat Football Netball home & away season commences on April 13^th.

The Bloods came close in both 2018 and 2019 but BFNL Media’s ‘Scoop’ has Melton facing the toughest season draw on the table in 2021. Keep checking in as Scoop serves up the pros and cons of the rest of fixture for every BFNL club next week.

Melton

Draw rating points: 110
2021 draw ranking: #11

PROS:Not many. FOUR of FIRST SIX games at home although the opposition line-up is a worry with Melton South in Round 1, Sebastopol in Round 3, East Point in Round 5 and Redan in Round 6

CONS:FIVE trips to Ballarat, including FOUR in SIX weeks from Round 8 to Round 13, up against North Ballarat Round 8, Lake Wendouree in Round 9, Ballarat in Round 11 and East Point in Round 13

-  Tough draw in the first SIX rounds despite having FOUR at HOME – (Melton South HOME, Sunbury AWAY, Sebastopol HOME, Darley AWAY, East Point HOME, Redan HOME)

- Play FOUR of 2019 Finalists TWICE, including Grand Final duo East Point and Sebastopol, as well as Sunbury and Darley

Comment:They came close in 2018 and 2019 but have lost some key personnel. With (in my opinion) an unfavourable 2021 draw, the Bloods will need to do plenty right to guarantee a finals berth in what is shaping up to be an improving season across the board despite the salary cap reduction.

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: Melton

COACH: Aaron Tymms (6th Season)

2022 Home & Away Record: 1st (14-2, 195.80%)

Scoop: Tymmsy, with the monkey of expectation off your back after winning last year - how have you gone about restoring the motivation of the group for a new season?

Aaron Tymms: The boys are very keen on the opportunity to go back-to-back. I expect we'll look a little different this year so those who weren't a part of it are hungry for a taste of it. So, there's plenty to be excited about.

S: You get key big man Benny Archard back which is a major boost but as many as four premiership players from last year are gone. How did you weigh up your off-season on the player movement front?

AT: It's a bit of a shame we lost a few, it's the biggest turnover of the list I’ve had since joining the club in 2018. It will be a good test for us.

S: Can we expect you to introduce some more youngsters this season? From the outside looking in there seems to be a fair queue wanting a crack, namely the twos given they lost just three games last year in a runner-up season.

AT: Definitely. I'm tipping we'll see a bit more of our emerging talent. Max Scoble, Nathan Dowdy, Conrad Farrugia and Zac Russell are a few of our boys on the up.

S: You’re now a premiership coach with the Bloods - what are you better at now than you were when you joined the club in 2018? What have you learned?

AT: I'm more relaxed, patient and better organised. I used to be all about ‘win, win, win’ and prone to make more changes than I needed to when chasing the result.

S: You're such an even team, who in your opinion brings the x-factor?

AT: We don't have outright matchwinners if that's what you're alluding to. We're an honest, even bunch. Full team buy-in.

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

AT: Hard working. We're a defence first group across all lines - to be #1 in this area is a real focus.

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

AT: Defensive 50 stoppages - we're leaking too many goals. Also, our midfield connection, again around stoppage - needs work.

S: How has pre-season training looked?

AT: Really good. The boys completed the 90km running program asked of them over the break. We didn't do much before Christmas given we went so deep last year but have returned to three nights a week from Jan 30.

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

AT: Darley into a second year under Dan Jordan and North Ballarat.

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

AT: Sebastopol will go very close.

KEY INS:

Ben Archard (Returning), Johnathan O'Brien (North Ballarat), Brody Sullivan (Melton South), Jack Watkins (North Melbourne VFL)

PLAYER OUTS:

J.Hickey (Diggers Rest), L.Hickey (Diggers Rest), M.Orr (Diggers Rest), B.Crofts (Caroline Springs)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

B.Archard (Essendon), J.Watkins (North Melbourne), K.Borg (Port Melbourne), B.Payne (Port Melbourne).

Scoop's Melton prediction: 1st - 2nd

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!

First cab off the rank is the reigning premier, Melton, as Troy Scoble gets his team ready for a flag defence.

SCOOP: Well Scobes, you're now officially the hunted following an 18-1 season capped by an emotional premiership win. Back-to-back is a tough ask - do you consider changing a system that is already proven?

TROY SCOBLE: We were really proud of our club’s performance in 2024. Our first year together was planned to be the foundational component of the system. Our players have been a part of this system for (essentially) 19 games. The first part of the season focused on the learning component, while the latter was more about consolidation of those learnings. The 2024 game style was for THAT playing group noting opposition and weather condition variables. All clubs will have changed so we have to continue the build on the foundational components to keep developing our game style with a focus on key areas in each phase of the game. 

S: How about the hunger of the players - do you subscribe to the theory there's a natural drop-off with intensity/buy-in after a flag?

TS: My previous experience post premiership success tells me some players are driven for more success and improvement, and some feel fulfilled and don't have as strong internal drive. That's natural and we will go into the new season with that mindset. The 2025 Melton Bloods squad has players wanting to develop their game, wanting to be better players and plenty wanting a taste of what others have experienced. With a large squad, the player who is best prepared to play the role required will be suitably rewarded with their opportunity.

S: Billy Crofts returns after a stint with Geelong and the Western Bulldogs at VFL level - tell us about his player type and likely role.

TS: Billy commenced his VFL career with Geelong when I was there and has really grown as a person and footballer through his time with the Cats and more recently the Western Bulldogs. Billy is an inside mid with speed, power and strength in the contest - can play anywhere. While he remains a Footscray VFL listed player, coming home has been rewarding for the club to continue developing our own and provide Billy with more opportunities to play alongside childhood mates he grew up (playing) with. 

S: You lose tireless campaigner Brett McIntrye (travel) - will Jono O'Brien and Josh Stewart assume the ruck duties?

TS: Brett, who will remain connected to the group, was really important for us in 2024 with Jono O’Brien’s injury and Josh Stewart early in the development of his career. While we're excited about having Jono back and the opportunity to keep progressing Josh's footy, we expect to roll a number of players through that role during the year pending the scenario we face.

S: Leading forward Ryan Carter is expected to play just ten games this year - please explain...

TS: Ryan's partner took up an amazing opportunity in Brisbane that the club is genuinely excited for and fully supports. Ryan's connection with the club is really strong, and with a number of return trips to Melbourne we are really pleased he wants to continue his footy with the group he loves so much. We are yet to finalise what that looks like with the amount of games etc, but it will be significant. Ryan has connected with a mate of mine coaching in the QAFL so we know he will have access to quality training. When he is not with us it provides great opportunities for some of our younger key position types to gain senior exposure. 

S: Key intercept defender Jordy Cotter (foot) has not been since round nine - how's he tracking for a return?

TS: Jordy was a significant loss to our group. He pushed hard for a finals return but the injury was far more significant than originally thought as he experienced first-hand during his rehab. Jordy supported the group throughout that whole period. He already saw the game well and hopefully there will be some real positives for him to draw on when he returns. Jordy is progressing well through the break and continues to throw himself into making sure he ticks every box for a successful return. Players at his level are very hard to find so we look forward to having him back.

S: Adam Kennedy (GWS) and Jack Watkins (Port Adelaide SANFL) have been spoken to for a possible return - what is the likelihood of acquiring these two?

TS: Jack earned an amazing opportunity to train with Port Adelaide for a Supplementary Selection Period list opportunity and is performing really well. We hope that eventuates and we see Jack in Port colours in 2025. Adam has commenced his post AFL playing career with a Development Coaching role at the Sydney Swans. Both boys supported us strongly throughout 2024 and remain connected to the club and our group. Seeing Adam is more likely than seeing Jack.

S: Jack Walker and Jaycob Hickey play 'high minutes' through the midfield for you - can we expect more of the same or can we expect some new blood rotated through the area?

TS: Our mids play similar game time each week. We rotate a number of players through that bracket on game day which adds to our flexibility. Those two (Jack and Jaykob) may play 'higher minutes' but the reality is - that is their role for us. We have some new additions to our midfield group planned for this year, some returning players, younger players and some guys that will look to add to their existing roles. The more flexibility, the better.

S: Given Melton South's move to the RDFL, do you believe this year's title will be the hardest to win in recent times given you have to play each team twice?

TS: They are all hard to win. I guess playing everyone twice evens up the draw. I anticipate this year’s premiership will be just as challenging as previous years. Exciting season ahead.

PLAYER INS:

B. McMahon (Diggers Rest), M. Caddy (Melton South), B. Crofts (Caroline Springs/Footscray VFL)

PLAYER OUTS:

B. McIntrye (travel)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

K. Borg (Port Melbourne), J. Watkins (Port Adelaide SANFL), B. Crofts (Footscray).

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE:

March 15/16 -Yarrawonga play-in tournament
March 22 -vs Gisborne (home)

IMPROVERS TIP (OUTSIDE OF MELTON):

TS: All teams will be stronger and comp very even.

FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF MELTON):

TS: Darley

Well coached with some boom recruits and a reasonable draw, the Panthers are set for some big gains in Season 2021. Scoop will keep serving up the pros and cons of the rest of fixture for every BFNL club every day this week.

Melton South

Draw rating points: 103
2021 draw ranking: #6

PROS:Play 2019 Grand Finalists East Point and Sebastopol only ONCE

- Play THREE HOME GAMES in FOUR WEEKS before the bye, with Round 8 at home to Ballarat, Round 9 at home against East Point and Round 11 at home against North Ballarat before a BYE in Round 12

- Meet only THREE finalists from 2019 TWICE (Melton, Redan, Darley)

CONS:FIVE highway trips to Ballarat including THREE in FOUR weeks from Round 14 to Round 17 (versus Ballarat in Round 14, Redan in Round 15 and North Ballarat in Round 17)

- Play AWAY FOUR times in FIVE weeks from Round 13 to Round 17, including THREE highway trips, up against Bacchus Marsh in Round 13, Ballarat in Round 14, Redan in Round 15 and North Ballarat in Round 17

Comment:Despite five trips to Ballarat (equal competition high with Melton) locked in for 2021, the Panthers additions to the playing group should stand them in good stead to win their first (or more) highway game in three years. Well coached and the addition of boom recruits means oppo beware. Expect remarkable improvement from the Panthers in 2021. Ironically, their draw is better than 2019 and has a gap on the intended 2020 draw. 

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: Melton South

COACH: Jason Hamilton & Ryan Hoy (1st Season)

2022 Home & Away Record: 10th (3-13, 53.49%)

Scoop: Jason, welcome to the BFNL. Tough gig, the Panthers, given the club has won just 9/58 games since 2018. I think it would be unfair to define your coming season with win/loss. In that case what is you and Ryan's idea of 'season defining' for your young group?

Jason Hamilton: Progressive improvement from week-to-week. Continue to put time into those young blokes as 'Pilch' did before me promoting organic growth and development.

S: In our brief conversations ahead of today you come across quite the 'straight shooter'. Win/loss aside what will you and Ryan be looking for on a weekly basis to ensure the confidence you're on the right track?

JH: Our ability to compete deeper and deeper into games. We're confident of having three full teams representing our club each week.

S: Dylan Conway, Shaun Wyatt and Billy Lloyd all depart the club. Losing three big guns would impact any team - what has been the intentions of the club to replace them - what player type have you and Ryan targeted in the off season?

JH: We’re after bigger body inside mids. A key back and key forward. We're not the finished product yet, still in the marketplace.

S: There's some progressive talent among the youngsters at the club who are starting to notch up considerable game time - can we expect any in particular to graduate into the midfield or have a significant impact on games? Who has taken your and Ryan's eye on the track?

JH: Mitch Fino, Cody Chapman, Jarrod Bibby and Riley Theo are a promising quartet you can expect to see playing minutes in the midfield. They're fit, strong and showing enough to give every indication they're ready to take their game to another level.

S: Do you know much about your BFNL opposition given your short time? What are your observations and expectations on what you know already via vision, word of mouth, etc?

JH: It’s a quality competition with accomplished players and coaches. The vision indicates a skillful brand of footy - I’m really looking forward to the opportunity coaching at the highest level of my career. I just love the footy!

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

JH: Youth who are eager to learn and improve. Also, we hope our level of fitness can be an advantage.

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

JH: Tinker the game plan to suit us specifically. We don't want to try and play some other team’s game. Focusing on our plan maximising our own strengths can only help us, I think. I also think a new voice, something fresh if you like, will invigorate the group and hopefully we can have a few more wins.

S: How has pre-season training looked?

JH: Going great, I’m very happy with our fitness levels.

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

JH: Sunbury.

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

J: Melton

KEY INS:

Phillip Moimoi (Geelong West), Cassius White (Hillside), Tevita Hallett-Tauali'I (St Kilda City), Phil Hoyland (Rockbank), Tyrell Lafituanai (St Kilda City), Aydin Reilly (St Kilda City)

PLAYER OUTS:

S.Wyatt (Point Cook), Br Sullivan (Melton), B.Sullivan (Darley), B.Lloyd (Horsham), D.Conway (Retired)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Tevita Hallett-Tauali'I (Sandringham). Phillip Moimoi (Sandringham)

Scoop's Melton South prediction: 9th - 11th

The Ballarat FNL is seeking commentators to join the team as part of our exciting, expanded Netball coverage for the 2023 season.

Each week a selected A Grade Netball game will be streamed live as the official BFNL ‘Match of the Round’.

Those interested in commentating should have:

• A passion for community sport
• A good understanding of netball
• The availability to attend games on a Saturday afternoon in the Ballarat and surrounding regions

No previous experience required and all equipment provided!

Remuneration negotiable.

Expressions of interest can be sent to BFNL Netball Manager Gemma Murphy at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 0401 152 906.