Frank passed away peacefully at 51 years of age on Monday 26th August from colorectal cancer just 2 months after being diagnosed. The 'Fop' was rated as The Best Geelong Football Netball Leagues Player of all time by the Geelong Advertiser in 2015.
Fopiani was an unstoppable force in North Shore's dominant era, winning seven premierships (1993 and 1995-2000) and one flag with St Mary's in 2004. Fopiani was also a five time Best & Fairest winner for the Seagulls and is well known for standing up when it mattered the most, being awarded with Best On Ground performances in 1993, 1995 and 2004.
Frank has had a major impact in the football community over his time and now leaves a legacy that will live on through memories. His passion and determination will continue to inspire us all on and off the field.
The Fopiani family are a well known family within the Geelong Football Family and we extend our sincere condolences to Paige, Sylvia and Connor.
AFL Barwon is thrilled to announce a landmark partnership with Sports Entertainment Network (SEN) to broadcast the 2024 Dow Bellarine Football Netball League Senior Football Grand Final live from Leopold Memorial Park. This exciting collaboration marks a significant moment for local football, offering unprecedented exposure and coverage for one of the most popular days on the AFL Barwon calendar.
Securing SEN, a leading voice in sports broadcasting across Australia, to call the Bellarine FNL Senior Grand Final is a huge coup for the entire AFL Barwon region. The live broadcast will bring the atmosphere and intensity of the day and will showcase the exceptional talent and community connections that defines the Bellarine FNL.
AFL Barwon Regional General Manager, Edward Wilson, expressed his excitement about the partnership, saying, "This is a monumental step forward for our league and community. Having SEN on board to broadcast the Senior Male Football Grand Final, not only elevates the status of this League and the BFNL Clubs, but also recognises the strength that our region presents across the state of Victoria".
Sam Thompson, Group Radio Director, Sports Entertainment Network said “We are excited to strengthen our partnership with AFL Barwon for the BFNL Grand Final 2024. This collaboration is a testament to our dedication to bringing premier sports coverage to local communities. Through SEN’s extensive network of regional stations and digital platforms, we are committed to delivering comprehensive and engaging content that brings the excitement of the BFNL Grand Final to fans everywhere. Partnering with AFL Barwon allows us to elevate the game-day experience for all, whether they are in the stands or following the action from afar.”
Listeners will be able to tune in via SEN Geelong station on SEN’s iPhone and Android app with the simulcast and live stream of the match being available on AFL Barwon TV. This will allow the 2024 Dow Bellarine FNL Senior Grand Final reach greater audiences.
AFL Barwon is proud to bring this exceptional coverage to the wider community and looks forward to a thrilling Grand Final event at Leopold, made even more special by SEN’s involvement.
To download the SEN App, simply click on the relevant app store
Grovedale's Janessa Fitzgerald has taken home her first of potentially two medals this week, winning the Senior Female Football Division 1 Best & Fairest.
Fitzgerald held on from former AFLW star, and Thomson recruit Phoebe Monahan. The count came down the last round of the season however Monahan didn't play allowing Fitzgerald to hold on. Janessa's teammate and coach Taylah Hassett and Barwon Heads's Isabella Farchione tied for third.
South Barwon speedster Elara Dillon took home the medal in a tight count over St Joseph's Paris Stokes. Drysdale's former medallist, Tara Smith continue her sensational polling record, finishing three votes behind in third.
The Division 3 count was an all-Modewarre affair with Monique Martin holding off teammate Clodagh Newton in a quinella for the Warriors. Martin and Newton take on Belmont Lions in this weekend’s Grand Final.
The Under 19 count was a Newtown & Chilwell quinella, with Jayde Morrissy finishing one vote ahead of teammate Belle Fletcher.
The full votes for the divisions can be found below:
AFL Barwon rules & regulations do not allow pets at football netball clubs and venues Please keep this in mind when preparing to attend any finals or local matches.
Please note - you will be refused entry at the gates if you have a pet with you on arrival at any finals this weekend.
