Ahead of this weekend's action, take a look into 'The Archive' as we delve through the record books for all the big moments throughout history from Round 9.

HIGHEST SCORES

34.32.236 REDAN v Beaufort 1976

35.20.230 DARLEY v Sebastopol 2015

35.19.229 GOLDEN POINT v Redan 1998

34.14.218 EAST POINT v Melton 2013

32.19.211 BALLARAT v Bacchus Marsh 1979

LOWEST SCORES

0.0.0 BEAUFORT v Redan 1976

0.3.3 SEBASTOPOL v Redan 2004

0.5.5 BACCHUS MARSH v North Ballarat 2012

0.7.7 BALLARAT IMPERIAL v Ballarat 1895

1.2.8 SEBASTOPOL v Ballarat 1894

GREATEST MARGINS

236 REDAN 34.32.236 d Beaufort 0.0.0 1976

209 GOLDEN POINT 35.19.229 d Redan 3.2.20 1998

192 DARLEY 35.20.230 d Sebastopol 6.2.38 2015

180 NORTH BALLARAT 30.15.195 d Daylesford 2.3.15 1992

173 REDAN 29.13.187 d Melton 2.2.14 2015

“HEART STOPPERS”

Draw South Ballarat 3.3.21 dr Ballarat Imperial 2.9.21 1896

Draw Golden Point 11.12.78 dr Maryborough 10.18.78 1951

Draw Golden Point 14.9.93 dr Maryborough 14.9.93 1978

Draw East Point 14.10.94 dr Bacchus Marsh 13.16.94 2017

GOALKICKERS

18 C.Chester (Redan) v Beaufort 1976

14 W.Higgins (Daylesford) v Redan 1973

13 D.Jordan (East Point) v Melton 2013

12 K.Reynolds (Darley) v Sebastopol 2003

12 J.Edwards (Darley) v Sebastopol 2015

11 G.Bell (Redan) v Melton 2015

10 D.Duff (Ballarat) v Ballarat Imperial 1928

10 Dalton (Ballarat Imperial) v South Ballarat 1936

10 G.Pryor (Maryborough) v Redan 1980

10 K.Murray (North Ballarat) v Bacchus Marsh 1982

10 T.Howlett (Golden Point) v Sebastopol 1983

10 G.Cahir (Sebastopol) v Maryborough 1987

10 C.Hunt (North Ballarat) v Daylesford 1992

Melton takes on Melton South on Saturday at 2.15pm at Melton Recreation Reserve

CLUB: MELTON

COACH: Aaron Tymms

FOR THE RECORD

(Scoop): Before we get stuck into the Bloods’ chances, can you give us an update on Dyson Stevens and how the fundraising event went at the Deer Park Bowls Club in late February?

(Aaron): Great day, feedback was all positive - everyone had a real fun day. Dyson was there and said a few words, which was terrific. It was actually the first time a lot of the players had seen him; it's been too difficult due to COVID. Dyson's spirits are up now he's finally home with family and among friends.

(Scoop): The club has lost a blend of quality and experience over the Summer - did you look to recruit like-for-like replacements and miss or does the club believe there's enough depth to push for another Top 3 finish?

(Aaron): We think 'Orry' covers Archard. We get Ryan Davis, who didn't play last year, and Lachie Watkins (kidney) who barely played, Jacob Hickey and Luke Heeney (played 1 or 2 games max), Anthony Hibberd is training the house down (didn't play 2021) and Daniel Walker. While they're listed Melton players, we think they're as good as new recruits for us. 

(Scoop): We're familiar with Mark Orr ahead of his return to the club - what you can tell us about newcomer Brenton Payne?

(Aaron): Big unit, full forward – 6-foot-4 and mobile.

(Scoop): If Payne looms the likely target forward, can we expect Ryan Carter to go back into defence? I know you rate him highly as a key back, despite playing him forward last year.

(Aaron): Both Carter boys can play back if needed. Who knows, we may roll the dice and play all three forward to stretch opposition defences. That would give teams something to think about!

IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS

(Aaron): Our Junior program provides us with depth and versatility. We train all sides the same to be all on the same page. Any player can come in and fill a role - we bat pretty deep.

IMPROVEMENTS

(Aaron): It's natural progression for us from within. Our boys have become men over the past couple of years and our age profile fits the criteria for a genuine crack at it.

PRE-SEASON TRAINING

(Aaron): Very pleasing - three nights per week: match sim on Mondays, weights Wednesdays and skill set on Thursdays. We're ticking along nicely.

DRAW COMMENTS

(Aaron):We go to Ballarat five times, which isn't ideal (competition high) but you just have to beat whoever you come up against one week at a time - ours is a tough draw.

PLAYER INS:

Mark Orr (travel), Brenton Payne (Hoppers Crossing)

PLAYER OUTS:

Dyson Stevens, Matt Denham (retired), Ben Archard (Swan Hill), Kevin Klix (Airport West)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Billy Crofts (Geelong), Jake Greisler (Williamstown)

MELTON PASS MARK:

(Aaron): Top 4

IMPROVERS: (OUTSIDE OF MELTON)

(Aaron): Ballarat

FLAG TIP: (OUTSIDE OF MELTON)

(Aaron): Sebastopol

North Ballarat take on Sunbury on Saturday at 2.15pm at Mars Stadium

CLUB: North Ballarat City

COACH: Brendan McCartney

FOR THE RECORD

(Scoop): Macca, you finished 9-1 and on top of the ladder in 2021 before COVID ended a very promising season for North Ballarat City. How has the club processed or weighted the season in flag terms?

(Brendan): There was still so much more to play out, but looking back, we were proud of our effort, our consistency and our connection. We will be doing our best to keep improving again in all areas through 2022. Our depth is very good and the morale around the club remains positive.

(Scoop): The club was 10-0 in first quarters last year, a fine achievement for a relatively young group. What advice, given your experience, could you suggest for players across the region who naturally want to start well on game day?

(Brendan): It's all about training - train as you play. Our training gets straight into contested situations after warm-up. We don't do slow drills, cone-to-cone for example and that is obviously having an impact on game day.

(Scoop): Josh Chatfield (Footscray VFL) and Riley Polkinghorne (Geelong VFL) have been invited for a crack at the higher level in the VFL. How are they tracking, and do you expect to see them much in City colours in 2022?

(Brendan): Both have had good summer programs at their respective VFL clubs. Naturally, we want them to play as much footy as they can at a higher level. Alternatively, we'll be more than happy to have them if/when the opportunity presents.

IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS

(Brendan): High running capacity. We have a high number of natural runners who respond well to training.

IMPROVEMENTS

(Brendan): Maximising scores from turnover and fine tuning our work around stoppage.

PRE-SEASON TRAINING

(Brendan): They've been great - very easy to coach. They bring the intensity we're after - fitness guru, Andrew Ferguson, is doing an excellent job with the boys.

DRAW COMMENTS

(Brendan): We're happy to play anyone. The home and away season is all about building behaviours and ultimately playing finals.

PLAYER INS:

Isaac Carey (WA) - excellent ball user and runner. Clearly in their best side.

PLAYER OUTS:

Daniel Jones (Beaufort), Jai Lockett (Qld), Darcy McEldrew (Qld), Josh Bromley-Lynch (Southern Mallee)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Josh Chatfield (Footscray), Riley Polkinghorne (Geelong), Sam Glover (Collingwood)

NBC PASS MARK:

(Brendan): To maintain a happy, engaged and well-supported club.

IMPROVERS: (OUTSIDE OF NBC)

(Brendan): Ballarat. I think there's plenty of upside for the Swans ahead of 2022.

FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF NBC)

(Brendan): Melton. Their intensity at the contest and work rate to win the ball back is impressive.

Darley takes on Sebastopol at Marty Busch Reserve on Saturday at 2.15pm - live-streamed to the BFNL Facebook page

CLUB: DARLEY

COACH: Dan Jordan

FOR THE RECORD

(Scoop):Well Dan, there's still no recognized ruckman at the Devils, does this pose a problem?

(Dan): Not necessarily. The vacancy will give one of our younger blokes an opportunity to grow and become a potential 10-year player at the club if they're up for the challenge. I've been in a similar situation at other clubs, we'll just need to be a bit more creative with our set-up around the ball.

(Scoop):What can the BFNL expect from gun recruits Brett Bewley, Nick Rodda and Dylan Landt?

(Dan): There's no guarantees (on performance) on any player(s) returning from a higher level. That aside, Brett brings exceptional leadership and standards that will have a lasting impact on the group while Nick will 'straighten us up' structurally and provide a key target forward. I expect Dylan to play most of his footy with Essendon VFL, any games with us will be a bonus. He dominated the SANFL last year.

(Scoop):The club is coming off a winless 2021, in what areas can Devils fans expect to see a spike in improvement?       

(Dan): We're still a work in progress. The buy-in thus far from the group has been positive. We're confident our focus on competitiveness will see us in games for longer as we strive for greater consistency over four quarters.

IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS

(Dan): Stability in defence, greater midfield depth and key target forward.

IMPROVEMENTS

(Dan): Embrace flair. I think we'll see a couple of break-out seasons from players taking the game on given the added experience to the group.

PRE-SEASON TRAINING

(Dan): It's been all about conditioning and trying to get players back to pre-covid fitness levels.  On the back of that, working on a collective buy-in with a game plan.  

DRAW COMMENTS

(Dan): Not too phased who we play really, our priority is getting that first win. I've no doubt we'll be a much-improved side in the back half of the draw.

PLAYER INS:

Brett Bewley (Fremantle AFL), Nick Rodda (Williamstown VFL), Dylan Landt (Glenelg SANFL, Essendon VFL), Dylan Bishop (ex-Bacchus Marsh)

PLAYER OUTS:

Jake Edwards (Qld), Ryan Kemp (WA), Mark Hanson (Point Cook Centrals), Kirk Fenton (Melton Centrals), Ricky Hawkins (Melton Centrals), Daniel Robson (Melton Centrals)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Dylan Landt (Essendon), Bailey Young (Footscray)

DEVILS PASS MARK:

(Dan): To play four quarters of consistent footy. A win early would be a major boost (to achieving this goal).

IMPROVERS TIP (TEAM OUTSIDE OF DARLEY):

(Dan): Tough ask, it's my first year!

FLAG TIP (TEAM OUTSIDE OF DARLEY):

(Dan): North Ballarat City, Macca has them pretty organized.

*With thanks to Darley FNC for photography

Melton South takes Melton on Saturday at 2.15pm at Melton Recreation Reserve

CLUB: MELTON SOUTH

COACH: Heath Pritchard

FOR THE RECORD

(Scoop): The club showed some promise in 2021, what are the expectations of the group ahead of the new season?

(Heath): To start well! We've shown our best is competitive and capable of winning games. We're confident our group will stay in games for longer and avoid 'blowouts'.

(Scoop): Bradley Olsson, Isaac Conway, Paul Curtis and Ryan Pendlebury are significant outs - all four are proven impact players. You've expressed your desire to start the season well and the returns from the midfield group will have a large say in achieving that goal. How are you shaping up in this particular area, renowned as it is for its top-end talent right across the competition?

(Heath):Billy Lloyd, Shaun Wyatt and a fit Matthew Nottman will provide the experience and footy smarts we need through there. I expect we'll give the kids who are training the house down ample opportunity to rotate alongside in a bid to fast track their development.

(Scoop): You've managed to secure experienced duo Dylan Jones (ruck) and Ben Casley (key forward) - tell us about these two signings...

(Heath): Dylan Jones is a 6-foot-7 athletic ruckman and a good ball user. He gives us genuine height advantage at centre bounce, a luxury we haven't had in recent years. 

Ben Casley, 6-foot-3, centre half forward, great pair of hands who will provide an extra avenue to goal.

IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS

(Heath): When healthy our ball movement is the testing material - this area was significant in our wins over Bacchus Marsh and Sunbury especially [last year].

IMPROVEMENTS:

(Heath): Defensively be more accountable without the ball, be harder to score against, etc. We've gained some much-needed height in the ruck and an aerial target forward to take the pressure off Dylan Conway, which should hold us in good stead.

PRE-SEASON TRAINING

(Heath):I think we've trained harder during the off-season than we have in recent years. I've been happy with our intensity and we're physically fitter as a result. 

DRAW COMMENTS:

(Heath): Can't worry about the draw, we have no control over it. I will say we're happy to be playing all of the eastern sides twice.

PLAYER INS:

Dylan Jones (Williamstown CYMS), Ben Casley (Northern Blues/Williamstown)

PLAYER OUTS:

Isaac Conway (Oakleigh Districts), Bradley Olsson (Old Xavier), Ryan Pendlebury (Sale), Paul Curtis (North Melbourne AFL)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Anthony Anastasio (Port Melbourne)

MELTON SOUTH PASS MARK:

(Heath):Stay healthy and improve our 'away' form.

IMPROVERS: (OUTSIDE OF MELTON SOUTH)

(Heath): Ballarat

FLAG TIP: (OUTSIDE OF MELTON SOUTH)

(Heath): East Point

Lake Wendouree host the Good Friday match - the last match of Round One - LIVE streamed tomorrow at 3.15pm on the Ballarat FNL Facebook page from CE Brown Reserve.

CLUB: LAKE WENDOUREE

COACH: Jack Fitzpatrick

FOR THE RECORD

(Scoop):Welcome Jack to the BFNL coaching ranks. Unfortunately, concussion issues cut your playing days short after 26 games with Melbourne and later Hawthorn in 2017. You're still only 30 years of age - what have you been up to in footy over the last four years?

(Jack): Werribee VFL Assistant Coach 2018-2019, Footscray AFLW Assistant Coach 2020-2021.

(Scoop):Heading into your debut season in charge of the Lakers, your job hasn't been made easier by the untimely departures of quality player personnel. Have the reinforcements arrived, or will the club focus solely on development from within?

(Jack): Reinforcements aren't everything, we've identified some good young talent that we're aiming to fast track and ultimately impact games. Liverpool ManagerJürgen Klopp won a title identifying talent within and just sort after top-up players to complement the group.

(Scoop):Name three non-negotiables (for the playing group) we would expect you to list on the whiteboard ahead of training and match days?

(Jack): Consistency, Concentration, Enjoyment.

IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS

(Jack): We are a work in progress. We will endeavour to play with excitement and flair - and be a fun and entertaining to club to watch.

IMPROVEMENTS:

(Jack): Consistency will be our greatest motivation. To remain in games even when we find ourselves behind - essentially bridging the gap between our best and our worst.

PRE-SEASON TRAINING

(Jack): It's all a bit of an unknown, at the moment. We've only played ten games in two years. Our priority is to improve fitness levels ahead of a full season. So far, I can safely say we are training well. 

DRAW COMMENTS:

(Jack): I'm a firm believer that you have to beat the best along the way to play a part at the business end. Regardless of whoever you play twice, you more often finish the season where you deserve to.

PLAYER INS:

Scott Carlin (Warrnambool), Bayley Thompson (Camperdown), Tom Hunt (Daylesford), Harold Pritchard (Portland), Cody Helyar (Horsham Saints)

PLAYER OUTS:

Kai Lohmann (Brisbane AFL), Jake Lohmann (Maryborough), Sam Butler (Hawthorn AFL), Josh Rentsch (Sturt SANFL)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Scott Carlin (Geelong), Fergus Greene (Box Hill)

LAKERS PASS MARK:

(Jack): An understanding of the game style we're aiming to implement will carry more weight in measuring a pass mark over wins and losses. Consistency will also play a role. 

IMPROVERS (TEAM OUTSIDE OF LAKERS):

(Jack): ... Tough for me to call in my first season.

FLAG TIP: (TEAM OUTSIDE OF LAKERS)

(Jack): North Ballarat. Macca coached me at Melbourne. His boys will be well-drilled, especially around the contested ball.

Redan take on Lake Wendouree in the Good Friday clash at CE Brown Reserve. Friday 14 April at 3.15pm - LIVE streamed on the Ballarat FNL Facebook page.

CLUB: REDAN

COACH: Jarrett Giampaolo

FOR THE RECORD

(Scoop): Jarrett, reading the Lions player 'outs' - has that curbed any finals ambition or expectation on the club for 2022?

(Jarrett): No, not really, it's actually an exciting time for the club rejuvenating the list with some quality youth.

(Scoop): Experienced duo Orren Stephenson and Lachie George, along with Orren Stephenson, was having a significant impact on games in 2019 when the club made it to Week Two of the finals. While COVID has dominated the [country] footy landscape since, can we expect to see George return fresh in 2022?

(Jarrett): The 'Big O' has hung up the boots - he's got everything out of his body and deserves a well-earned rest! Lachie is flying, he's an exceptional trainer and his leadership is again at the forefront. 

(Scoop): The club welcomes a handful of players from the Central Highlands to help replenish the loss of up to seven senior players. Tell us about them and their potential roles...

(Jarrett): Nathan Dunstan (ex-North Ballarat / Hepburn) is a proven ruckman, Gordy McLaughlin - key back, Lincoln Barnes - mid with lightning speed, and Jacob Werts - intercept defender.

(Scoop): Cooper Craig-Peters remains on Footscray's VFL list - how's his pre-season been, and do you think you will see much of him in Lions colours this year?

(Jarrett): Cooper had a bit of a setback over the summer but he's back in full training. Naturally, we want him to play at the highest level - he'll be a bonus for us through the midfield if the opportunity presents.

(Scoop note): We may also see fearless leader Liam Hoy (achilles) back sooner than expected (around the mid-season)

IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS

(Jarrett): It’s a new era at Redan, the dynamic has changed with an injection of youth that I’m sure will hold us in good stead. Another strength I believe in is the number of quality people we have at the Redan Football Netball Club.

IMPROVEMENTS:

(Jarrett): Our midfield depth - we have up to eight blokes we can run through there. We're a lot younger than in previous years – I’m tipping our speed of ball movement will increase and as a result, we hope to be a more attacking side that enables us to hit the scoreboard.

PRE-SEASON TRAINING

(Jarrett): Very pleasing. We've had the Rad Centre (through Lincoln Barnes) on board over the summer working on our strength and conditioning. It's been a lot of fun.

DRAW COMMENTS:

(Jarrett): It's a very even competition - you can't look too much into it.

PLAYER INS:

Lincoln Barnes (Waubra), Nathan Dunstan (Hepburn), Jacob Werts (Bungaree), Gordy McLaughlin (SMW Rovers), Ben McDonald (Waubra).

PLAYER OUTS:

Zac Jenkins (Rokewood), Will Madden (Tiwi Islands), Chris Giampaolo (Rosebud), Keenan Waterbury (WA), Dean Chester (Carisbrook), Jack Jess (Navarre), Pat Britt (Dunnstown), Orren Stephenson (retired)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Cooper Craig-Peters (Footscray)

REDAN PASS MARK:

(Jarrett): Playing finals is always the goal. Promoting our youth.

IMPROVERS: (OUTSIDE OF REDAN)

(Jarrett):Ballarat

FLAG TIP: (OUTSIDE OF REDAN)

(Jarrett): Sunbury

Ballarat takes on Bacchus Marsh on Saturday at 2.15pm at Maddingley Park

 CLUB: BALLARAT

COACH: Joe Carmody

FOR THE RECORD

(Scoop):There's a bit of hype around Ballarat's chances in 2022 - how do you think you're shaping up?

(Joe): Our midfield depth is as good as it's ever been - Domic, Kennedy, James, Powling. Our back six are also strong. The focus is on developing more avenues to goal (other than Hooper). Achieve this and it would be fair to say we'll be dangerous.

(Scoop):I have to ask how Josh Gibson, Andrew Hooper, and exciting newcomer Aiden Domic are travelling?

(Joe): Gibson has had a considered build-up and is moving well. We'll start to ramp up his work over the coming weeks - he'll be right to go Round One against the Cobras. Hooper is the fittest I’ve seen this time of year. He’s injury-free (from) post wrist surgery (last year). Domic’s looking good; an aerobic beast strong both inside and out and extremely versatile.

(Scoop):Since 2018 the Swans have won just once (1-8) on the road outside of Ballarat. You have Bacchus Marsh (Rd1), Darley (Rd7) and Sunbury (Rd11) down the highway this year. How do you go about changing the narrative? These games could make or break you, given your tough rated draw....

(Joe): The players have more experience on the road now so we're hopeful a growing belief, confidence level and developed mindset will hold us in good stead. There'll be no excuses.

IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS

(Joe): Leg speed, ball movement and our ability to change angles. Also, our team defence held up really well last year and we're expecting more of the same again in 2022.

IMPROVEMENTS

(Joe): Depth. Our younger guys have just scratched the surface with 20-plus games under their belts. We're confident there's plenty of upside with this group.

PRE-SEASON TRAINING

(Joe): Good. We've done a lot, especially over the last five weeks with match simulation. Jack Dunne (calf) and Inji Fyfe (hamstring) are our only injury concerns ahead of Round One.

DRAW COMMENTS

(Joe): Tough one first up on the road as we tend to struggle down there (Bacchus Marsh). Otherwise, it's pretty even across the board for us.

PLAYER INS:

Aiden Domic (Werribee) - gun mid, has the bulk of Lachie George, runs like Alik Magin. James Clark (GWV Rebels) - half forward/wing, will play mostly Rebels. Nick Swain (Anglesea) - half back, Mitch Martin like-for-like replacement. Tom Mooney (Glenroy EDFL) - third tall forward option, good competitor. Jesse Nicholls (SMW Rovers) - relief ruck, key back. Angus Bade (GWV Rebels) - key back/mid at 194cm, will play mostly Rebels. Inji Fyfe (Bendigo Pioneers/Old Scotch VAFA) - wing/flanker, pacy two-way runner.

PLAYER OUTS:

Mitch Martin (work-WA), Pat Glandford (Springbank)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Bailey Van de Heuvel (Footscray), Angus Bade (Footscray)

BALLARAT PASS MARK

(Joe): Finals

IMPROVERS (OUTSIDE OF BALLARAT):

(Joe): Darley

FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF BALLARAT):

(Joe): Melton

Sebastopol host Darley at Marty Busch Reserve at 2.15pm on Saturday - live-streamed to the BFNL Facebook page

CLUB: SEBASTOPOL

COACH: Michael Searle

FOR THE RECORD

(Scoop): Injuries were near as contagious as COVID for the 'Burra in 2021, how is the club shaping up on the injury front ahead of Round One against the Devils?

(Michael): Our injuries were a reflection on the nature of footy during COVID. I'm sure it was the same for a lot of teams - the struggle to get their best 22 on the park. We're in a good space at the moment. We'll continue to manage players through the practice matches but we should be ready to go for Round One.   

(Scoop): The club has done well retaining nearly all of its senior playing group from last season. Is there a sense of unfinished business after coming so close in 2019?

(Michael): That's a fair call. We've been open with discussions about how far this group can or wants to go. We're under no illusions, it's going to take a lot of hard work and commitment taking the next step. We haven't been far away in our last two seasons, and we're confident our Premiership window remains well and truly open.

(Scoop): You have some enviable depth through the midfield, can we expect to see more of Luke Kiel across half back - it seemed to work well given the absence of an injured Tony Lockyer in 2021?

(Michael): Yes, absolutely. Luke can take a bit of the (leadership) pressure off Tony in defence. He'll still go through the midfield, but you can expect to see Luke spending more time off half back. 

IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS

(Michael): Competitiveness, work rate, general evenness, depth.

IMPROVEMENTS

(Michael): I think you'll see some genuine growth and improvement from within this year, as the players themselves drive higher standards and expectation on their own performance. On the track we've been working on our effectiveness at the fall of the ball, an area we were lacking in last year.

PRE-SEASON TRAINING

(Michael): We've put together a solid block of work over the summer. Fitness advisor Scott Smith has done a terrific job getting the boys well-conditioned ahead of the new season. It's something new for the club to go along the sports science path and I’m very pleased with how it's all played out.

DRAW COMMENTS

(Michael): Fine, all good.

PLAYER INS:

Dean Robertson (Waubra) - back up ruckman for Jack Richards, Brad Veale (Bungaree) - in best 22 mid/forward rotation, Will Lovett (Bungaree), Jordan Crone (Bungaree)

PLAYER OUTS:

Nick Hausler (Qld), Michael Lockyer

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

None

SEBASTOPOL PASS MARK:

(Michael): Top 4

IMPROVERS (OUTSIDE OF SEBASTOPOL):

(Michael): Darley

FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF SEBASTOPOL):

(Michael): North Ballarat City

Bacchus Marsh takes on Ballarat on Saturday at 2.15pm at Maddingley Park

 CLUB: BACCHUS MARSH

COACH: Tom German

FOR THE RECORD

(Scoop):The Cobras were one of the first to begin practice matches in early March against East Keilor (EDFL). How did the group go, firstly, and secondly, connect with so many new faces?

(Tom): There were pleasing signs against a really good, strong side. East Keilor (including Heath Shaw) gave us positive feedback from the hit-out. We had a few out for various reasons, we ran a 12-man bench and gave our youngsters an opportunity as reward for their hard work over the pre-season.

(Scoop):Jack Williams, Jason Robinson and Michael Colliver have been touted as high-quality additions to the line-up - tell us about these three in particular...

(Tom): You're right about the quality! Each have displayed genuine enthusiasm and leadership on the track and to the small sample size we've seen on (practice) match day. Jack at key back, Jason at half back, and Michael at half back/wing is an exceptional runner. They're different players, but equally as important.

(Scoop): The Cobras have been heavily reliant on Daniel Burton, Nick Stuhldrier and yourself shouldering very high minutes through the midfield. Can we expect more of the same in 2022 or will you experiment / explore new options?

(Tom): I'm happy with our midfield depth and what it will bring. 

IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS

(Tom): Our spine is very solid and our midfield very competitive.

IMPROVEMENTS:

(Tom): More run / better ball movement, etc.

PRE-SEASON TRAINING

(Tom): There's no denying it's been a challenge due to COVID. That aside, I’m very happy with our efforts on the track and with our levels of continuity. Our training camp down at Aireys Inlet was also a success.

DRAW COMMENTS:

(Tom): Overall we weren't unhappy with our draw. It's a very even competition, whichever way you look at it.

PLAYER INS:

Jack Williams (Camperdown), Jason Robinson (Camperdown), Michael Colliver (VAFA), Sam Crea (Glen Orden), Ryan Chandler (Hillside), Rex Hickman (Mallee Eagles), Max Eastmure (Torquay)

PLAYER OUTS:

Ryan Bartlett (work), Lachie Christopher (Mansfield), Jayden Owen (Gisborne), Billy Griffiths (Gordon), Sam Griffiths (Gordon), Kane Dickson (Dunnstown), Kane White (Skipton), Tim Hughes (Skipton), Tom Wardell (Dunnstown)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

Nick Stuhldrier (Port Melbourne)

B/MARSH PASS MARK:

(Tom): Finals

IMPROVERS (OUTSIDE OF BACCHUS MARSH):

(Tom): Ballarat 

FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF BACCHUS MARSH):

(Tom): North Ballarat City

Sunbury takes on North Ballarat on Saturday at 2.15pm at Mars Stadium

CLUB: SUNBURY

COACH: Travis Hodgson

FOR THE RECORD

(Scoop): Sunbury has lost six senior players in the off-season - what can you tell us about the new brigade that will help calm the nerves of Lions fans?

(Travis): Cooper Anderson is a key position half-forward on Essendon’s VFL list, Pat Scanlon is a tall key defender, Ben Toman is a big-bodied mid at 186cm, Matthew Medcalfe is a dangerous small forward and mid rotation, Lachy Byrne will provide distribution off half-back, while Blake Graham (utility) has had a solid pre-season. Mitch Lewis we're unlikely to see - he's a very good player at Port Melbourne. So, we've added height and rebound off half-back, firepower forward, and a big body into the midfield whose running capacity near rivals his brother (Ben and Daniel Toman).

(Scoop): It's your third season as coach of Sunbury, will this be your best chance at winning a flag? 

(Travis): I think so. We just missed out on a Prelim berth in 2019 and I reckon this group has a lot more upside.

(Scoop): I rated your 2022 draw the easiest of any clubs, but your opening two games - North Ballarat City (away) and Melton (away) will be tough. Will there be an added focus on the importance of these games in particular?

(Travis): Absolutely. The 2021 Minor Premiers away, then Melton away after the unveiling of their new facility to home fans won't be easy, not to mention our poor recent win/loss record against these two away from home. If we can be square with the ledger after Round Two, I’ll be happy.

IDENTIFIED STRENGTHS

(Travis): Our depth most certainly. Our Twos will be hard to beat. The gap between our 12th and 30th player isn't much and we're all the better for it. We're also confident in our running ability.

IMPROVEMENTS

(Travis):Connection. We were 1-5 after the opening six games last year, it did take us a while to get going.

PRE-SEASON TRAINING

(Travis): Big numbers are hitting the track, and the boys look pretty fit under fitness guru Andrew Hall. Our focus has been to build on the momentum of last season that saw us win four of our last five games.

DRAW COMMENTS:

(Travis): It's a good draw.

PLAYER INS:

Matthew Medkraft (Port Douglas), Ben Toman (overseas), Mitch Lewis (Port Melbourne VFL), Pat Scanlon (Rupertswood), Connor Lever (East Sunbury), Will Wright (East Sunbury), Lachy Byrne East Sunbury), Blake Graham (Ballan), Cooper Anderson (QAFL)

PLAYER OUTS:

Alik Magin (Qld), Mitch Conn (Sydney), Josh Goater (North Melbourne AFL), Luke Goater (Deer Park), Dylan Featon (Deer Park), Mick Edwards (Riddells Creek), Wade Derkson (WA)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS

Mitch Lewis (Port Melbourne), Jake Sutton (Essendon), Cooper Anderson (Essendon), Jayden Eales (Box Hill), Josh Guthrie (North Melbourne)

LIONS PASS MARK

(Travis): Win a final

IMPROVERS (OUTSIDE OF SUNBURY):

(Travis): Darley

FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF SUNBURY):

(Travis): North Ballarat City

BFNL footy returns, with the 2021 season re-jigged, refreshed, and ready to relaunch this weekend (minus crowds). With only four rounds of the 2021 McDonald's BFNL home and away season remaining, Scoop takes a look at your team's finals prospects on the road home, in what's been a very even and testing 2021 season.

BFNL media writer 'Scoop' has crunched the numbers on the proposed 2021 season draw, revealing who are the winners and who has drawn the wrath of the footy gods. Over the next few weeks, Scoop will deliver a deep dive into the season ahead for your club.

Redan can savour a second successive #1 rated draw, while Bacchus Marsh (#2) and Darley (#3) can breathe a sigh of relief having fared well according to the formulated study.

Melton (#11) appear to have copped the wrath of the footy gods with five 'away' highway trips to Ballarat, not to mention double-up meetings with four finalists from 2019, including Grand Final duo East Point and Sebastopol.

While Melton South's (#6) Ballarat travel diary mirrors the Bloods, the draw around that looks far more favourable for a team expected to rise. As for the reigning dual Premiers East Point (#8), they copped a draw worthy of a team aiming for a three-peat. Sebastopol (#4) will enjoy a dream run in the final third of their season, while North Ballarat (#5) fared next best out of brick city. With scope for improvement both on and off field, the Rooster’s draw sees them in the mix for a sneaky finals berth.

Lake Wendouree (#7) and more-so Ballarat (#10) appear to have the job ahead of them according to the formula, despite their marquee signings. Flag challengers, Sunbury (#9), finished mid-to-low table with the draw after a difficult rating in 2019. Tough luck for the Lions who’s 2020 draw (#4) was looking bright but, alas, COVID...

Analytics aside for a brief moment, how good is it - footy's back (well nearly)!

EASIEST TO HARDEST 2021 DRAW

1. Redan - 94

2. Bacchus Marsh - 97

3. Darley - 98

4. Sebastopol- 100

5. North Ballarat - 101

6. Melton South - 103

7. Lake Wendouree - 104

8. East Point - 105

9. Sunbury - 107

10. Ballarat - 109

11. Melton - 110

SEASON 2019 Ladder

1. East Point

2. Sebastopol

3. Melton

4. Redan

5. Darley

6. Sunbury

7. North Ballarat

8. Bacchus Marsh

9. Lake Wendouree

10. Ballarat

11. Melton South

(Draw ranking points are determined by 2018 & 2019 numbers, projected improvement, this year's travel and who your team plays twice.)

The McDonalds Ballarat FNL, in partnership with Ballarat Toyota is proud to promote the Toyota Good for Footy program to support community clubs in our league.

Toyota Good for Footy is Toyota's grassroots footy program. Toyota has helped clubs raise over $7 million since 2008 through the program and helped over 500 local clubs from every state and territory.

To buy tickets and support your local community club, follow this link here.

It's been a busy early transfer window as clubs across the region look to shore up their lists heading into the new year.

Not including the usual exodus of players heading to compete in the Northern Territory FL competition, there has been a steady flow of ins and outs for the McDonald's Ballarat FNL.

Five clubs were active during the November transfer period with reigning premiers East Point signing three players, as did Redan and Melton. North Ballarat added two players and Melton South kicked things off with the one transfer.

Its been a busy period for Central Highlands FL with Creswick leading all clubs, having gained six players from the BFNL.

Ballarat league players have spread themselves far and wide heading to various leagues from the Wimmera to metro competitions.

With the early transfer window now closed, clubs will look to consolidate their lists as pre season training steps up before Christmas. The main clearance period will reopen on February 1^st 2021 through to 30^th June 2021.

There has been plenty of movement around the league ahead of a blockbuster 2023 season. Find all the additions to your club below thanks to Quest Ballarat.

Bacchus Marsh

N/A

Ballarat

Carisbrook

N/A

Darley

East Point

Lake Wendouree

N/A

Melton

N/A

Melton South

North Ballarat

N/A

Redan

N/A

Sebastopol

N/A

Sunbury

N/A

It wasn't just back to footy for the players and the fans on the weekend, Round One also signalled the return of umpire's reports and reviews.

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL advises the following outcomes of reports and reviews from Round One of the BFNL senior competition. 

Darley -v- Sunbury 

Darley player Andrew Azzopardi was reported for intentionally striking a Sunbury player and was offered a 2-week set penalty. The player requested this to be heard by the AFL Goldfields Independent Tribunal. 

The player Azzopardi pleaded guilty and received a reprimand due to his good record. 

East Point -v- Sebastopol 

Sebastopol player Jacob Wilkinson was sighted by the Match Review Panel for an incident involving Billy Jones from East Point and charged with intentionally striking. 

The matter was heard by the AFL Goldfields Independent Tribunal, where Wilkinson pleaded not guilty. After hearing from all parties, the player was found guilty and suspended for 2 matches. 

END RELEASE

The McDonalds Ballarat FNL advises the following outcomes from the recent AFL Goldfields Independent Tribunal, held Tuesday 27th April 2021.

Bacchus Marsh v Darley (Reserves) at Maddingley Park

Bacchus Marsh player Baiden Cracknell was reported by the umpire for ”intentionally or carelessly kicking another person”.

The AFL Goldfields Independent Tribunal found the charge not sustained and player Cracknell not guilty.

Bacchus Marsh v Darley (Reserves) at Maddingley Park

Darley player Dale Peacock was reported by the umpire for “intentionally or carelessly striking another person”. With the players good record, a 2-week set penalty was offered.

The AFL Goldfields Independent Tribunal found the charge sustained and player Peacock guilty. The AFL Goldfields Independent Tribunal sanctioned Dale Peacock (Darley FNC) with a severe reprimand.

END RELEASE

The BFLW are excited to announce the launch of an Under 12 Girls Development Program for 2024.

• A Football
• A Development Program training top
• A Drink Bottle