News

The board of the McDonalds Ballarat FNL is pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Carey as Football Manager for the league.

Scott’s appointment follows a selection process where several quality applicants were interviewed. There is no doubt Scott brings a wealth of knowledge and in particular, experience to the Ballarat FNL.

Previous roles have included operations manager of both the Ballarat FNL and MCDFNL along with a recent two-year stint in the same role with the Ballarat FUA.

Scott is well known around the league having played with the Lake Wendouree FNC and will be a valued addition to the leagues staff as we face some exciting challenges in the short term.

The primary role will be junior football and BFLWomens operations and management and will act as the first contact for these competitions.

Starting January 18^th, 2021, Scott will complement the recent announcement of Gemma Murphy as Netball Manager and give the league valued experience as we work to consolidate and grow our competitions.

There are a few road trips to start the season for Sebastopol but the Burras should be looking good at the pointy end of 2021 with a dream run of five of their last six games at home. Scoop will wrap up the club-by-club draw analysis with Sunbury tomorrow.

Sebastopol

Draw rating points: 100
2021 draw ranking: #4

PROS:Play just THREE teams from 2019 Finals TWICE (East Point, Sunbury, Melton)

- Play at HOME FIVE out of last SIX matches

CONS:First HOME game not until ROUND SEVEN (v. Sunbury)

- FOUR trips EAST will be something new for the Burras. They have had only SIX highway games in the last TWO seasons (competition low)

Comment:Despite some time away from home in the first half of the season, the Burras should have the playing stock to see them through to a classy showing again in 2021. Good list and a dream run at the point end of the season with the final third of the season all home games bar one.

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: Sebastopol

COACH: Luke Kiel & Michael Columbrio (1st season)

2022 Home & Away Record: 3rd (10-6, 115.80%)

Scoop: Congrats on your appointment at Sebastopol, Luke. When did you think coaching was an avenue you would like to pursue?

Luke Kiel: To be honest, I never really thought about coaching until I had a stint 'in the box' last year nursing an injury. I guess that sparked the motivation and genuine interest. I'm looking forward to the challenge with my Co-Coach Michael Columbrio.

S: Runners-up in 2019 and 2022 suggests you're not far away from securing a first flag since 1974. You've been busy in the marketplace - what player type was deemed a priority to add to an already solid group?

LK: Keeping the current group together first and foremost. Players who have the ability to cover the ground and not turn the ball over have been on our radar.

S: Your inspirational leader, Tony Locker, has had two surgeries to mend a syndesmosis injury sustained in last year’s finals series – how is he tracking along?

LK: Ankle movement for Tony has finally freed up which is positive. He's already back in the gym and not far off running at full capacity.

S: You lose ruck James Richards and shutdown defender Ben Trew but appear to have added some quality personnel over the break. Given the small sample size, are you better placed at this time than your previous runners-up years?

LK: It's hard to tell. I'd like to think we've done everything right so far to give us every chance of success.

S: Can you tell us what will Burras footy look like under Luke Kiel and Michael Columbrio?

LK: We want to be more attacking with our ball movement and hit the scoreboard more.

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

LK: Disciplined and hard working.

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

LK: To start well. Our opening five games are a real focus for us.

S: How has pre-season training looked?

LK: We've never trained harder in my time at the club.

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

LK: Sunbury

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

LK: Melton are still the team to beat, Darley next.

KEY INS:

Jesse Clark (Werribee VFL), Jay Dahlhaus (Werribee VFL), Liam Latch (Maryborough), Nicholas Sanders (St Josephs), Ryan Birthesel (St Josephs), Cameron Jackson (Bungaree)

PLAYER OUTS:

J.Richards (Overseas), B.Trew (Injury)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

J.Clark (Werribee), J.Dahlhaus (Werribee)

Scoop's Sebastopol 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!

After just missing out on the finals action last season, Tony Lockyer's Sebastopol will out to bounce back and challenge the top sides once again. 

SCOOP: Tony, you've been around footy as a player and among leadership groups - how tough was your first year as senior coach of the 'Burra?

TONY LOCKYER: Tough not quite the word, all-encompassing role but lucky to have great support around me. Collectively we had our challenges as a senior group that required a lot of resilience. It was pleasing to see the group over the course of the year through the challenge.

S: It's fair to acknowledge injuries and loss of underrated personnel had an impact on your season, Has the approach into this season been any different to prevent a recurrence?

TL: Yep, we probably underestimated the impact of some personnel and injuries. All teams go through this at some point though and to a certain degree it's outside of your control. We've looked to bolster our stock whilst allowing room for our promising youth to develop. The approach into pre-season has been fantastic with the group putting in some hard conditioning to get themselves in the best shape.

S: You won just one of nine games vs last year’s finalists with an average losing margin of 55 points - where do you start with closing the gap - is it as simple as drawing a clean slate?

TL: As we did throughout the year we always look to review and learn, then to continuously improve. We've identified some key areas from the year to help focus in and close the gap to the top. We've also looked at what made the top sides great and what we can learn from them.

S: What positives have you been able to draw on from last season?

TL: The resilience in our group to turn things around in the second part of the year. Some promising performances against quality sides showed where we can get to in 2025. We were able to get plenty of games into some exciting young players.

S: Like it or not you're on the 'bounce back' trail - can 'Burra fans expect one small step forward or count on one giant leap back into the mix as you were the previous three seasons?

TL: One small step at a time. We will see how many small steps we can make!

S: Tell us about the new recruits and their targeted roles?

TL: Hugo Papst - proven character who we missed last year. Gedd Hommelhoff - excellent mover with great skills, who missed 2024 with injury. Excited to see him make his mark on the BFNL. Some great kids coming through our ranks - I’m excited to watch in 2025.

S: What type of footy do you want Sebastopol to be known for this year?

TL: Fiercely competitive - get back to being a very difficult side to play against.

S: What will be the number one, overriding non-negotiable asked of your players that will give them the greatest chance returning to finals?

TL: Simply play your role.

S: Given all teams play each other twice this year, do you support the theory that this premiership will be the hardest and most deserving, rewarding of all to win in your time with the BFNL?

TL: I think it provides an equitable crack at it for all.

S: Can you share a couple of young, up and comers we're likely to see impact games this year? A bit of late mail if you don't mind....

TL: James McDonald, Jacob Fletcher, Wylie Anderson, Lachy Sheridan.

PLAYER INS:

H. Papst (Horsham), G. Hommelhoff (Wycheproof. former Eaglehawk Bendigo Best and Fairest), R. Perry (Ballarat), T. Severino (Talbot), T. Raven (Carngham Linton), C. Jeffrey (Rokewood)

PLAYER OUTS:

J.Dahlhaus (Leopold), J. Clark (St Joeys), G. Snowden (Rokewood), L. Latch (retired)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

J. Medwell (Footscray), R. O'Keefe (Port Melbourne train-on)

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE:

March 15 - vs Torquay (H)
March 22 - vs Port Fairy (A)

IMPROVERS TIP (OUTSIDE OF SEBASTOPOL):

TL: Bacchus Marsh

FLAG TIP (OUTSIDE OF SEBASTOPOL):

TL: Melton

Does your child have a passion for the sport & recreation industry?

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Discover the SEDA College difference and register for the Ballarat Information Session – Monday 26^th May - and find out about our unique, practical education programs.

Registration is required and details can be found below:

DATE: Monday 26th May

TIME: 7pm

LOCATION: Ballarat Regional Soccer Facility, Pleasant Street South, Ballarat

BOOK NOW: https://seda.vic.edu.au/events/

Applications are open for 2026 and places are filling fast

SEDA College – You bring the passion, SEDA Brings the education

The McDonald's Ballarat FNL welcomes today's easing of restrictions that will allow senior football and netball to return to competition.

With crowd limits increased in regional Victoria to a maximum of 1,000 people, the last requirement to allow competition to return has been met.

As two rounds have been lost due to restrictions, the McDonald's BFNL senior competition will have a slightly different look and flow to the previous fixture published.

The senior football and netball fixture will be revised as follows:

• Rounds 1 to 6 will stand
• Rounds 7 and 8 will be played the next 2 weeks 19th June (Rd 7) and 26th June (Rd 8)
• Round 11 will be played as per the fixtured date (3rd July)
• Rounds 9 and 10 will be played the following two weeks 10th July (Rd 9) and 17th July (Rd10)
  - Rounds 12 and 13 from the original fixture will be the two rounds abandoned
• Rounds 14 to 18 will be as per the fixtured dates

The priority for the league has been to ensure all clubs play each other at least once, which is the minimum requirement to ensure a premiership season and will be achieved through the completion of round 10 scheduled for 17th July.

The revised game schedule ensures fixture integrity through all clubs having seven home and away games, along with two byes.

Looking forward, we wait for further announcements from the government that will allow crowds for metro-based BFNL clubs scheduled to host games in round eight.

This weekend will see the full Ballarat FNL competitions in action across BFNL seniors, BFNL juniors and BFLW. Western Bulldogs Under 9’s will resume this Friday night after a short break as well.

END RELEASE

The board of the McDonald's Ballarat FNL has today considered the announcement from the state government to extend the metro lockdown and the impact this has on the senior competition. 

Given the lockdown has been extended at this stage until midnight on Thursday 19thAugust 2021, it has been determined the final round of the home & away (round 14) scheduled for Saturday 21stAugust will be cancelled and not proceed.

This action will result in the 2021 Home & Away season now being completed. 

Ladder positions will be final as per the current results, which provide a true reflection of the competition given all clubs have played each other once. 

The 2021 Carlton Draught Senior Finals series is still planned to commence from Saturday 28thAugust, dependant on updates from the government as this date nears. 

The league will continue to show flexibility to ensure all finals can be played where possible with all clubs who have earned the right to participate given the opportunity. 

Further advice and details around finals structure and planning will be provided in due course, but clubs eligible for finals are asked to prepare for the series to commence as of the date advised. 

Details of the junior and BFLW finals series are being considered separately and will be advised at the completion of this weekend's games. 

END RELEASE 

Sherwood is an iconic Australian brand with a proud 95 year history of supporting community sport through quality, innovation, and reliability. Their commitment to excellence aligns perfectly with the BFNL’s vision of providing a professional and unified experience across our football and netball competitions.

As part of this exciting partnership, Sherwood will supply high-quality on-field and off-field apparel for the BFNL and work closely with our Clubs to meet their uniform and merchandise needs.

We strongly encourage all BFNL Clubs to utilise Sherwood as their preferred apparel supplier wherever possible to ensure consistency, quality, and continued support for our valued league partner. By choosing Sherwood, Clubs not only receive exceptional quality and service, however also help strengthen a partnership that directly benefits the entire League.

Sherwood offer quality garments that they GUARANTEE to replace for FREE any garments that are ripped or genuinely broken within the 2026 season.

Early Bird Specials are on offer to receive a 10 % discount.

Raffle draws to win $500 Sherwood credit.

Mike from Sherwood will be in contact with Clubs shortly to discuss apparel needs and assist with any upcoming orders. In the meantime, Clubs are welcome to reach out directly to Mike on 0490 059 319 or via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

We’re thrilled to welcome Sherwood to the BFNL family as our preferred apparel supplier and major netball sponsor, and we look forward to a strong and successful partnership ahead.

The recent announcement from the Western Bulldogs and Asics Oceania gifting underage football players in Ballarat with free ASICS footwear, which will directly impact our BFNL and BFLW players for the upcoming season is something we are deeply appreciative of being selected.

Ballarat locals have been doing it tough, not only in the current financial struggles but within the community with fires, heartache and social interactions spanning from our youngest members to the oldest.

This announcement Wednesday is a real boost to the community and something that will put a smile on the kids faces.

The intention is to roll this out prior to the season for our junior players, although a short turn around Asics and the Bulldogs are committed to making this happen.

As noted this will impact directly around 1800 players across the BFNL junior and BFLW junior teams.

Who will be eligible:

•  BFNL Junior teams (boys/mixed competitions) – Under 9 players, under 11 players and under 13 players registered in the 2024 season.
• ·BFLW Junior teams – Under 12 players and under 14 players registered in the 2024 season.

What do you need to do if you are eligible?

• Firstly, register with your club now if you haven’t already. Each club has their registration links open, if you need the link again, please get in contact with your club.
• Secondly, your club coordinator will assist in collating information at your club level. Please attend your training sessions!
• Finally, ensure you check your child’s size of footwear required now! This will be a quick turnaround so to get the shoes here to your club as quickly as possible there will be a short turnaround time on this link.

The BFNL and junior club committees will assist in promoting and collating this information to be passed onto the Western Bulldogs and Asics.

These shoes will be a mix of football boots and runners, but rest assured you are going to receive a pair of high-quality footwear from a leading brand in the industry!

For more information, please contact the following staff:

BFNL Junior competitions (Boys/Mixed) Matt Newton – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

BFLW competitions Tayla Banham – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Find a full list of FAQs below:

Night one of the Showbiz Cinemas BFNL Netball Academy was a fantastic way to kick off the program, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting and enjoyable season ahead.

The energy and enthusiasm on court was great to see, with a strong focus on learning, skill development and teamwork. Participants embraced the environment, challenged themselves and supported one another as they began developing their netball skills in a positive and encouraging setting.

We sincerely thank Showbiz Cinemas for their support of the program and their commitment to helping create opportunities for young netballers. A great start to the Academy journey, and we’re looking forward to building on this momentum in the weeks to come.

What an incredible night at Academy this week!

We were thrilled to welcome special guest Kim Borger, who shared her experience and knowledge with our athletes. Kim has competed at the highest level with both the Melbourne Vixens and Sydney Swifts, and is now involved with the Western Warriors VNL Club.

Our players were extremely fortunate to learn from someone with such elite playing experience, and we are so grateful to Kim for giving her time to support our Academy athletes.

To top it off, Showbiz Cinemas even dropped in to see the program in action – we truly appreciate their ongoing support of the BFNL Netball Academy.

A fantastic Week 2 and plenty more to come! 

We were super excited to welcome Riley Richardson to Week 3 of the BFNL Showbiz Cinemas Netball Academy!

Riley is a member of the Australian Men’s Netball Team (Kelpies) and is widely recognised as an incredibly talented mid-courter. His speed, vision and court craft made him an outstanding role model for our athletes, and we were extremely fortunate to have him share his time with our program.

Riley passed on his skills, knowledge and experiences to participants, giving our BFNL Netball Academy athletes a unique opportunity to learn from one of the best in the game.

This is exactly what the Academy was all about — providing high-quality development experiences and exposure to elite pathways.

A huge thank you to Showbiz Cinemas for their continued support of the BFNL Netball Academy, helping us deliver opportunities like this for our young athletes.

What an incredible way to finish the 2026 BFNL Netball Academy!

Over the past four weeks, we have watched our athletes grow not only in skill, however in confidence, leadership and game understanding. The learning and development across all participants has been outstanding. From footwork and fundamentals to match play, decision making and the improvement in every athlete has been clear to see.

Most importantly, the energy has been amazing. The fun, enthusiasm and willingness to learn created a fantastic environment each and every session. Our athletes embraced every opportunity, challenged themselves and supported one another, exactly what community sport is all about.

One of the true highlights of this year’s academy was the opportunity for our participants to learn from National Players, National Coaches, VNL Coaches and VNL Players. Having these high level mentors share their knowledge, experiences and insights provided inspiration and invaluable learning moments for everyone involved. It was an experience our athletes won’t forget anytime soon.

A huge thank you to our major sponsor, Showbiz Cinemas. Without Showbiz Cinema’s support, we simply could not deliver an academy of this quality or continue to provide development opportunities for athletes within our community. Your investment in grassroots sport is helping shape the future of netball in our region, and we are incredibly grateful.

Thank you to our coaches, guest presenters, athletes and families for making the 2026 BFNL Netball Academy such a success. We can’t wait to see these athletes continue to shine throughout the season and beyond.

Sons of the West is back, commencing from March 16th. The FREE ten-week supportive men's health program is open to men aged 18 years and over. All ages 18+ and all fitness levels and abilities are welcome.

First held in Ballarat in 2016, the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation has again partnered with the City of Ballarat and Sports Central to deliver the Sons of the West program this year.

Sons of the West is a FREE ten-week health program that aims to empower men to improve their health and wellbeing by providing them with the tools, knowledge and support to take control of their health journey.

The program is open to men aged 18 and over and offers a safe and supportive environment for participants to build upon their health knowledge.

Each weekly session involves:

• an educational component featuring a guest speaker presenting on a dedicated health topic
• a physical activity session run by local health experts, designed to suit all fitness levels and abilities

Date: Commencing Wednesday 16^th March

Venue: Phoenix P-12 Community College – Sebastopol Campus – Hertford Street, Sebastopol

Time: 7:00pm to 9:15pm

To register click here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/sons-of-the-west-sebastopol-7pm-tickets-249898171157 

For more information on the program, contact Xavier Smith from Sports Central on 5331 6966 (ext. 107) or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

A tougher-than-most draw but Sunbury will be more than up to it in 2021 and, as always, visitors beware. This wraps up Scoop’s 2021 draw analysis, but he’ll be back with plenty of footy insights in the lead up to Round 1 and across the season.

Sunbury

Draw rating points: 107
2021 draw ranking: #9

PROS:Good run of HOME games despite quality opposition from Rounds 13 to 16 against Darley in Round 13, East Point in Round 14, BYE in Round 15 and Sebastopol in Round 16

CONS: Play FIVE of the 2019 finalists AWAY with Darley in Round 1, East Point in Round 3, Sebastopol in Round 7, Redan in Round 11 and Melton in Round 12

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

Comment:Sunbury has had tougher draws. Once again, the Lions will be hoping to maintain their impeccable record at home. Good luck visitors, Sunbury will challenge again in 2021 regardless of any draw handed to them.

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!

Following a solid inaugural campaign under new coach Matt White, the Lions will look to build on a promising 2024 return. 

SCOOP: In fairness your expectations last year were always tempered with an eye toward having a greater impact in your second season - why so?

MATT WHITE: Well firstly, 'expectation' is not one of my favourite words, I avoid that one. But yes, we're still learning, understanding defensive and offensive methods. We've identified flaws and are addressing those. Also, familiarity with our group and personnel of other teams, I feel we're all a little more informed.

S: You won your first six games last year before losing six of your last ten - what were your overall impressions of the BFNL?

MW: Exactly what I thought. Well coached, great players etc. It's why I wanted the job at Sunbury, the competition is in a very exciting space. I can't wait to get 'stuck in'.

S: The importance of your defensive group goes under the radar for mine and that was validated when injuries hit the likes of Newitt, Hannett and co. How are they travelling and can we expect some fresh faces down there to improve depth?

MW: We're very healthy down there - Hannett, Lever, Newitt, Tentonello and Wood all had their niggles of varying degrees last year. All are up and about and ready to go.

S: You lose Mitch Lewis, a 'between the arcs' accumulator but gain key forward and Coburg VFL listed Damien Johnston - tell us about him and his intended role....

MW: Strong aerial target (forward) that will test a few sides (defence). We think our forward line will be considerably more dynamic than last year.

S: Was Johnston targeted because of the reliance on Jake Sutton and Mitch Mclean to hit the scoreboard?

MW: Absolutely. Losing (Patrick) Scanlon hurt us. We quickly identified we needed a 'big hooer' 6'4'', 6'5" type moving forward - Damien is a very good mark and strong in the contest. 

*Scanlon remains 100% on the radar for a return after rupturing his ACL in Round 5 v North Ballarat.

S: Given each team plays each other twice in 2025 - will it make it harder for teams to win the premiership despite one less team?

MW: I think so. I'm tipping a very even year - teams have again added quality. This season (draw) will give you a real good gage as to where teams are at. Exciting times ahead.

S: Are we likely to see more of Ben Cameron this year and are you convinced a midfield role is his best position as opposed to half back for example?

MW: Ben is a genuine midfielder. He has been training with Coburg VFL over the Summer as a potential option off half back at that level. We're happy his game is diversifying because it allows us to play him in a number of positions if/when required.

S: Sunbury at Sunbury has always been a tough assignment - in your short time at the club, why do you think that is the case? Surely, it's not as simple as the size of the ground?

MW: I agree it's not the size of the ground. I think we just like playing at home - hostile environment etc.

S: Mitch Mclean had a breakout season last year - if you had to tip the next man up to have greater impact in 2025, who are you leaning to?

MW: Jake Egan (midfield) - injury interrupted season denied him any real continuity. Jake has had a ripper pre-season and primed to take his game to the next level.

PLAYER INS:

D. Johnston (Mooroopna GVFL)

PLAYER OUTS:

M. Lewis (Mansfield), T. Werner (Gisborne), L. Urbon (Bundoora), B. Walker (Wallan), J. Bygate (Airport West), A. Goodsen (Melton South), C. Lever (Riddells Creek), J. Lee (Gisborne Giants)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

J. Sutton (Essendon train on), B. Cameron (Coburg), H. Minton-Connell (Williamstown), D. Johnston (Coburg)

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE:

March 1- vs Hoppers Crossing (A)
March 15 -vs Pascoe Vale (A)
March 29- vs Gisborne (A)

IMPROVERS TIP: (OUTSIDE OF SUNBURY)

MW: Bacchus Marsh and Lake Wendouree

FLAG TIP: (OUTSIDE OF SUNBURY)

MW: East Point

With Round 1 fast approaching, Scoop has caught up with all ten senior footy coaches as they prepare for season 2026!

Sunbury will look to go one better following a grand final berth last year, but the Lions will have their challenges ahead of them.

Scoop: Matty, tipping most fans of the BFNL want to know what Jake Sutton’s movements are given his link to a move to Sydney with his partner. Can you elaborate the club’s intentions with Jake moving forward?

Matt White: Jake Sutton has moved to Sydney and like Melton last year we are able to get him back for enough games to qualify for finals.

S: Jake Egan and Tyson Lever have spent their off season with Essendon VFL - have you planned a season without them - where do they stand at the Bombers?

MW: Egan and Lever are both at Essendon. Egan has been training really well from the reports I’ve got back, and Lever has been battling a foot issue but has recently joined back into their training. Tyson has been at most session either watching or coaching for Sunbury. Would expect them to get games but unknown how may both will get at this stage with a full Essendon AFL list to choose from.

S: Great run to finish off last season before falling short in the Grand Final - what’s one area in particular you can share you need to improve to make up the ground against the Devils given you were 0-4 against them in 2025?

MW: Improvement will come from another year running a similar game plan but like the best clubs around (Darley included) they don’t reinvent the wheel, it’s about building on what we have and finding other ways to break opposition momentum.

S: When we will see Josh Guthrie (ankle) and Cody Bramble (knee) who missed a large chunk of last season?

MW: ‘Guth’ is looking for a Round 1 return at this stage. We aren’t going to rush him back in under any circumstances. He’s a key cog to our midfield and forward so we’ll weigh up the risk v reward early on. Cody is looking like a return early in the season, all dependant on how his rehab progresses. Best thing for Sunbury is he’s down at Footscray VFL being managed by AFL/VFL physios and rehab specialists. We can’t wait to get both back on the park.

S: How’s the pre-season - have you seen reason to change it up on previous campaigns or is it essentially the same prep?

MW: Really light pre-Christmas. Was more about touching footies and being around each other. 27 odd games last year with pre-season games and all four finals games so it was more about management and making sure we didn’t burn them all out as it’s still a reasonably young group. We’re ramping up now and looking forward to practice games starting in March.

AREAS OF IMPROVEMENT

Projected improvement is going one better. Happy to have gotten there last year but we got a taste and as a group and club we want to be back there.

INS & OUTS

In:  K. O’Shea (Caroline Springs), J. Gillard (Montmorency), L. Tudor (Caroline Springs)

Out: J. Coles (Sunbury Kangaroos), S. Morris (Broadford), L. Brennan (Macedon)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS

Jake Egan, Tyson Lever (Essendon), Daniel Johnston, Jordan Gillard (Coburg), Harry Minton-Connell (Williamstown), Hamish Pearce (North Melbourne)

PRACTICE MATCH SCHEDULE

March 14 - Sunbury v Hoppers Crossing (VTBD)

March 21 - Gisborne vs Sunbury

CLUB IMPROVERS TIP

MW: North looks set to explode with the recruiting and locking in vfl boys full time, Bacchus Marsh are still on the up as well with who they’ve been able to bring in.

FLAG TIP

MW: It’s hard to go away from Darley. Lost a ruck and some fringe players over the off-season but the core is still there, and Dan is a super coach, so he’ll have something up his sleeve. North as a smokey.

SCOOP SAYS

Won seven of their last nine games last year – the only two losses for the period came against the Devils. All the damage was done in the Lions’ worst hour of the season outscored (collectively) 14 goals to 1 in the last quarter of the second semi final and first quarter of the grand final. Depending on how much VFL time Jake Egan and Tyson Lever get with Essendon will surely play a role in where they finish at the business end. Star forward Jake Sutton is the only forward in the BFNL averaging more than 3.5 goals per game over his last 50 games. His move to Sydney will ask questions of the remaining pride but I can’t see them missing the finals action. The return of Josh Guthrie and later Cody Bramble will help their finals standing. I have them in the mix behind Darley and Melton.

Projected finish: 3rd

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: Sunbury

COACH: Travis Hodgson (5th Season)

2022 Home & Away Record: 9th (5-11, 100.78%)

Scoop: Trav, after 1-4 starts your previous two seasons at the Lions, what gives you the confidence we won't see a repeat?

Travis Hodgson: When you only play 16 games and start slowly it’s very

hard to catch up. We've made a conscious effort to adjust our preparation to get better results early. Time will if we get the desired outcome.

S: Tell us about the newbies and their roles – Josiah Garisto, Rivva Karpany and Cody Brand. What can they add to the group?

TH: Josiah and Rivva are both 27 years old and we felt we needed to add some experience to the age profile of our group. Josiah is a strong bodied, rebounding defender with standout leadership qualities while Rivva is a versatile, extremely talented X-factor small forward. Cody can play at either end at 6'5", and straight off an AFL list - his type is rare in this competition. His competitive nature at training has been a feature.

S: Despite being only one of two sides to beat reigning Premiers Melton throughout last year’s home and away season, you lost more than your fair share of close ones. Have you put the line through looking back or is it something you have worked on at training with match simulation for example?

TH: Yep, that was extremely frustrating and shaped our season. The short answer is we have focused on it (arresting the close losses) and I didn't see it as bad luck, rather an inability to convert strong positions in games into wins. Lack of experience I thought played a role.

S: Having Josh Guthrie, Mitch Lewis and Jack Newitt full-time gives you some security at the selection table - with the twos winning the flag last year and thirds winning a final can we expect a return to finals for your proud club?

TH: Having Mitch, Josh and Jack full-time is a great starting point when it comes to selection. We played 44 players last year - 30 odd would be more conducive to the continuity we believe is required to succeed.

S: While you're an experienced coach at this level, after a 21 win and 22 loss record at Sunbury since 2019, what have you learned during this time in charge?

TH: It's a good reminder it takes time with kids. I had a side in the Ovens and Murray a while ago who went at a 50 per cent win rate for two seasons before becoming a real force in the third. There's a big difference between 0-10 game players and 30-40 game players. We have a large number entering the latter phase so I’m expecting measurable improvement from our younger brigade.

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

TH: Solid back six, good behind the ball. Tyson Lever and Harry Minton-Connell ran first and second in our Best and Fairest off half back. That speaks for itself.

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

TH: Better balanced up forward with Cody Brand as a tall option and Rivva Karpany as a dangerous goalkicking small forward. Also having Josh Guthrie and Mitch Lewis full time should see progressive improvement in the group.

S: How has pre-season training looked?

TH: Been solid. We're more advanced and fitter, having brought everything forward with an aim to start well.

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

TH: North Ballarat to resemble more of 2021.

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

Sebastopol.

KEY INS:

J. Garisto (Aberfeldie), R. Karpany (Coburg), C. Brand (Essendon)

PLAYER OUTS:

J. Eales (Kyneton), D. Toman (Woodend), H. Ross (Riddell)

VFL AFFILIATED PLAYERS:

J. Sutton (Essendon), H. Minton-Connell (Essendon), C. Bramble (Box Hill).

Scoop's Sunbury prediction: 4th - 6th

We continue the countdown to the senior season with Scoop's club-by-club predictions for Ballarat. The Swans have a superstar new signing in three-time Hawthorn Premiership player Josh Gibson who, along with 2019 league leading goalkicker Andrew Hooper, will cause plenty of headaches for opposition teams. But coach Joe Carmody insists there's more to the Swans than Hoops and Gibbo.

Ballarat

Scoop's 2021 prediction: 8th - 10th

EXPECT Ballarat to play their part in the overall improvement of BFNL action in 2021 given the club’s marquee signing of former Hawthorn champion Josh Gibson.

According to coach Joe Carmody, Gibson could not have been more impressive in the lead up to round one.

"Gibbo hasn't missed a session," he said.

"He's been excellent."

While the equation for opposition sides to overcome Ballarat this year appears problematic enough in its simplest form (stop Hooper, avoid Gibson = win), Carmody is adamant there are more strings to the Swans bow.

Despite a lowly 2019 performance that yielded just three wins and a draw, the Swans are confident they can turn the tables on some results that didn't go their way. The Swans lost five and a half games by 18 points or less and were in the hunt despite the final score against Sebastopol (Rd 1 - 21 points) and Darley (Rd 18 - 51 points). But outside a few near misses and three wins, the Swans were belted for the most part of the last season played, struggling with a growing injury list to key players.

Mitch Martin, Sam James, Nick Weightman, Lachie Dawson and Keenan Mellington missed 52 games between them, exposing the Swans youth and (lack of) experience. Even Andrew Hooper, who was the BFNL leading goalkicker in 2019 (41 goals) played with debilitating injuries (ribs, calf) but somehow managed to play every game deep in the forward line.

Swans coach Joe Carmody's philosophy in 2021 is simple.

"We just want to be able to turn up and compete for longer, regardless of the opposition," he said.

"Last season (2019) we were good for 15 minutes a quarter, but leaked goals too easily thereafter.

"Thankfully, all of our boys are over their injuries and haven't missed a beat over the summer.

"And Hoops (Andrew) is going around again for us, which is terrific, and we're hopeful he can thrive with an injury-free run and more support (forward)."

The Swans welcome key forward Jake Dunne (Buninyong) to bolster their options in the air inside 50, while Mitch Bishop (key back) returns from a lay off and is likely to play an important role in aiding Gibson and Bailey Van de Heuvel who was the 'go to' man in defence last season. Nathan Patrikeos (Waubra) will add some body strength through the midfield in the absence of Keegan Mellington (who remains doubtful) and Lachie Dawson (likely to be call up for Footscray VFL duties). Former Ballarat Rebel and (then) TAC Cup leading tap ruckman Pat Glandford (6’2 - solid build) will play the relief role for 2019 Club Best and Fairest winner Marcus Powling.

"It's pretty exciting for us," Carmody said.

"Our group has plenty in the 21- to 22-year-old range, and with 40 to 50 games under their belts and four or five pre-seasons, they look like men now and are ready to have a significant impact."

Keegan Mellington (doubtful), Jesse Nicholls and Jed Hill are the notable absentees for 2021.

*Affiliated players: Lachie Dawson (Footscray VFL)

Carmody's Tips

Ahead of the biggest day on the BFNL calendar, take a look into 'The Archive' as we delve through the record books for all the big moments throughout history from our grand finals.

HIGHEST SCORES

27.18.180 BALLARAT v Golden Point 1933
25.15.165 MELTON v Melton South 2001
23.17.155 SUNBURY v Redan 2012

LOWEST SCORES

1.6.12 MARYBOROUGH v Geelong West 1958
1.6. 12 LAKE WENDOUREE v North Ballarat 1996
1.12.18 BALLARAT IMPERIAL v South Ballarat 1909

HIGHEST SCORING MATCHES

255 Redan 20.17.137 d East Point 17.16.118 2006
253 Sunbury 23.17.155 d Redan 15.8.98 2012
244 Ballarat 27.18.180 d Golden Point 8.16. 64 1933

LOWEST SCORING MATCHES

58 Ballarat Imperial 5.3.33 d Golden Point 3.7.25 1922
64 South Ballarat 6.10.46 d Ballarat Imperial 1.12.18 1909
73 Melton 5. 9. 39 d Sebastopol 4.10. 34 2022

GREATEST MARGINS

138 MELTON 25.15.165 d Melton South 3.9.27 2001
116 BALLARAT 27.18.180 d Golden Point 8.16.64 1933
114 NORTH BALLARAT 21.16.142 d Ballarat 4.4.28 1992

“THE CLOSE ONES”

Draw Ballarat 6.10.46 drew Maryborough 6.10.46 1927
Draw Ballarat 10.9.69 drew RAAF 10.9.69 1943
1 South Ballarat 9.9.63 d Ballarat Imperial 7.20.62 1911
1 Ballarat 6.16.52 d South Ballarat 7.9.51 1923
1 North Ballarat 9.9.63 d East Ballarat 8.14.62 1970
1 Redan 13.15.93 d East Ballarat 13.14.92 1975
1 Darley 11. 5. 71 d North Ballarat 10.10. 70 2023

HIGHEST SCORING QUARTERS

1st 9.7.61 SUNBURY v Redan 2012
2nd 10.5.65 NORTH BALLARAT v Ballarat 1992
3rd 9.4.58 MELTON v Melton South 2001
4th 11.3.69 REDAN v Sunbury 2002

GOALKICKERS

10 M.McIntyre (South Ballarat) v Sebastopol 1938
9 P.Tagliabue (Ballarat) v Golden Point 1987
8 P.McMahon (Lake Wendouree) v Ballarat 2010
7 H.Cooper (Ballarat) v Ballarat Imperial 1930
7 Anderson (Ballarat) v Golden Point 1933
7 L.Collins (Golden Point) v Redan 1953
7 J.Gull (Daylesford) v Maryborough 1961
7 S.Clarke (Sunbury) v Redan 2012