The Ballarat Football Netball League (BFNL) wishes to advise its clubs and community that following a review of confirmed team nominations and player numbers for the 2026 season, the Board has resolved that Woady Yaloak Football Netball Club cannot be fixtured in the 2026 BFNL Junior Competition.
This decision has been made following careful consideration of the minimum team requirements necessary to ensure the stability, integrity and fairness of the junior competition across all grades.
The BFNL Board has a responsibility to all member clubs to ensure competitions are structured in a way that avoids uneven draws, excessive byes, potential forfeits and ongoing fixture disruption.
Fixturing a club without the capacity to consistently field the required number of teams would create significant challenges for the broader competition and impact the experience of players and families across the League.
While this is a difficult outcome, the League acknowledges the efforts of Woady Yaloak FNC in working to field junior teams and recognises the participation challenges faced by many regional
clubs.
Importantly, the BFNL strongly encourages Woady Yaloak FNC to continue its involvement in the Under 8 Football competition and Under 9 Netball competition in 2026.
These entry-level competitions play a vital role in grassroots participation and provide an important foundation for rebuilding junior pathways in future seasons.
The BFNL remains committed to working collaboratively with Woady Yaloak FNC to support the growth and sustainability of its junior program.
The League thanks all clubs for their ongoing cooperation and commitment to maintaining strong, sustainable junior competitions.
