AFL Barwon

AFL Barwon are excited by an initiative led by AFL Vic to support and develop local club coaches in the region. This is a fantastic opportunity for clubs to upskill their coaches and provide adequate support. 

This is a FREE program that offers support to all clubs delivered by local male and female coaches Michael King and Shannon Knox who have worked in both community and elite pathways. 

AFL Victoria Coach Developers Purpose: 

AFL Vic Coach Developers aim to deliver coach learning methods (coach education, facilitation, assessing, mentoring and reflection) with club coaches within their coaching context at club level. Trained coach developers will work with clubs and club coaches to identify individual performance & learning needs, while targeting whole-club coaching development of coaches within participating clubs. Coaching behavioural change and creating a ‘player centred’ environment are key focuses of Coach Developers. 

To help us understand your clubs coaching needs and wants, please complete the survey (coaches and coordinators to complete). 

For enquiries and to grab a coffee to chat further please contact -  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

In-line with the recent announcement of the AFL’s updated 2024 Concussion Protocols, AFL Barwon has announced updated Football & Netball Concussion Protocols.

The most significant announcement detailed within the 2024 AFL Concussion Protocols was:

• All Australian rules football competitions at all ages (i.e. adult/open competitions and all junior competitions outside AFL/AFLW), will adopt a mandatory minimum 21-day return to play protocol. This new protocol will apply for State Football competitions (including the VFL and VFLW), elite pathway competitions (including the Coates Talent League for boys and girls) and all community football competitions; and
• Under the new community guidelines, the earliest that a player can return to play after a concussion is on the 21^st day after the day on which the concussion was sustained and provided that the player has safely progressed through each phase of the return-to-play program. 

In-line with this announcement, AFL Barwon has adopted:

1. The 2024 AFL Concussion Protocols for all AFL Barwon and affiliated Australian rules football competitions at all ages; and
2. Has also adopted this policy for all AFL Barwon and affiliated Netball competitions at all ages.

This adoption extends to practice matches, interleague and other games of any kind, of Australian Rules Football and Netball, in all forms.

In-line with AFL Barwon’s 2024-2026 Strategic Plan, to be community sport leaders in the safe and sustainable delivery of Football and Netball, we will continue work regionally on further resourcing and support for all affiliated Clubs, competitions and Leagues.

Clubs, stakeholders and community members alike are encouraged to contact AFL Barwon if they require further detail or clarification on these guidelines.

AFL Barwon, in extensive consultation with the impacted member clubs and their key stakeholders, have made changes to the AFL Barwon Female Football Day of play for the 2024 season.

The Epworth Senior Female and Under 19’s Female Football Competition’s will be played primarily on Friday nights. The fixturing of Friday night matches will be only at venues that have lighting that meet the required safety standards to host matches. There are only 5 of the current 17 Senior Female & Under 19’s clubs do not have adequate lighting facilities which will see most matches played on Friday nights. For club’s with sufficient lights to play night home games, doubleheader fixturing will be made possible. For any clubs that do not have adequate lighting, they will still play home games on Sunday's, unless alternative fixtures have been agreed upon. Clubs have been encouraged to consult and collaborate with other clubs if games need to be moved from the Friday night or Sunday timeslots for any significant reasoning.

The basis of these changes has been formulated to ensure that female participation continues to trend positively across the Barwon Region. With the implementation of the Fair Access Policy in 2025, AFL Barwon believes this modelling is a critical element in preparing for these policy changes. Female participation in the Barwon Region in 2023 had a rise of 17% across all competitions.

Throughout the consultation process, a consistent theme emerged indicating a strong desire for increased club connection among female players and officials. There was a notable interest in providing them with the opportunity to participate in club social events. The changes should also help to strengthen the connection between the Under 19 and Senior sections of the Female Football Clubs.  

There are no changes to the scheduling or day of play for any other junior female competitions in 2024. 

All fixtures for Female Football competitions will be released in the lead up to the 2024 season.

Click here for the 2024 season dates for all Female Football competitions.

ABOUT US

As an organisation, the AFL works tirelessly in all states and at all levels to enhance and grow the game – from grassroots to elite. AFL Victoria’s vision is to be regarded as an accountable, respectful and progressive sporting organisation that is responsible for the continued growth of Australian Football in Victoria by:

• acting collaboratively in the best interests of the game;
• providing strong leadership and effective guidance;
• managing relevant and viable state league competitions that form an integral part of the talent pathway;
• supporting participation pathways and development programs.

We have multiple casual opportunities available in the below location:

• AFL Barwon – Geelong & Surrounding Areas

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF

An AFL Victoria Game Development Officer is primarily responsible for conducting general Australian Football game development programs within the school and community environment. The role will include but not limited to:

• Supporting the delivery of school’s clinics,
• NAB AFL Auskick program,
• Diversity Programs,
• AFL club-based activations,
• Promotional activations,
• Coaching Initiatives and,
• Inflatable activations.

OUR IDEAL TEAM MEMBER

• Demonstrated personal initiative and ability to work effectively unsupervised and in a team environment.
• Well-developed verbal, interpersonal and presentation skills.
• Confidence and ability to deliver engaging and positive outcomes with a range of AFL programs.
• Current Victorian Driver License with access to a motor vehicle.
• Satisfactory Employee “Working with Children” check.
• First Aid certificate or to be obtained.

Desirable

• Tertiary qualifications in Teaching, Sports Coaching, Recreation, Education, Marketing or equivalent depth of experience.

• Established ability to bring together and coordinate a diverse range of project partners.

OUR CULTURE

http://www.afl.com.au/careers/experience-extraordinary

HOW TO APPLY

Simply click here to apply

Please submit a Cover Letter and Resume with the subject ‘Game Development Officer’ with your preferred region by 10 December 2021.

Geelong Cats player and Love the Game ambassador Jeremy Cameron will tonight speak about leadership and why he loves footy at an online forum for young footballers and netballers in the AFL Barwon region.

The forum will be preceded by a Sport and Life Training (SALT) session with SEDA College students that will explore the risks associated with sports betting and how young people can resist social pressures to gamble.

‘Young men in the age range of 18–24 years now make up a third of sports bettors in Victoria, and participation by young women is rising,’ Cameron said. ‘I’m not much older than this group, so it’s concerning that they are betting in such large numbers.

‘Kids should be able to enjoy the footy without thinking about the odds or being persuaded by all the gambling ads, that everyone who bets will win and have a great time. That’s not the reality.’

The Geelong Cats and AFL Barwon-hosted events are being held in the lead-up to the Cats’ first Love the Game round of the 2022 season this Saturday (30 April) at its GMHBA home ground.

Throughout May, clubs across all codes and levels in Victoria will participate in Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation Love the Game rounds, during which coaches and parents will be encouraged to talk to kids about the risks of sports betting.

‘Coaches will be asked to make a game plan to talk to their teams about sports betting and to urge parents to do the same during this year’s Love the Game month,’ Foundation CEO Shane Lucas said.

‘The aim is to help young people understand the risks of gambling before they are legally able to bet so that they can make informed decisions when they reach adulthood.’

Bruce Harwood, AFL Barwon General Manager, said that young people are being strategically targeted to engage in gambling through very aggressive advertising campaigns. But through Love the Game, clubs and leagues are taking a stand and educating in the dangers and consequences of gambling.

‘Many of our league members are Love the Game partners, saying no to sports betting sponsorship and taking a proactive role in informing and equipping young people to think carefully about betting.’

AFL Barwon and the Geelong Cats, along with the other nine Victorian AFL clubs, AFL Victoria and 650+ community clubs across the state are Love the Game partners. They all love the game, not the odds.

Media contact:

Geelong Cats

Bianca Wallis, General Manager – Marketing, Digital and Communications | 0421 366 262 | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Troy Daniel, Marketing Manager | 0412 724 928 | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation

Fiona Skivington, Manager, Media & Communication | 0428 248 931

Anyone affected by their own or someone else’s gambling can contact Gambler’s Help 24/7 on 1800 858 858 to access free, confidential advice, support and referral.

South Barwon vs Lara

Although the Cats initially put up a fight in the first term, it was all South Barwon for the rest of the game. The Swans strolled away by 98 points as Lara suffered another heavy loss.

The Cats had no answer for Andrew Boseley who kicked eight majors for the day. Sam James complimented him well with two goals of his own on top of 32 disposals. Oliver Lee and Mathew Condon also finished strongly with two goals apiece.

Bayley Cockerill was one of the Cats’ best. 28 disposals and one goal saw a solid effort from Cockerill in a poor loss. Kane Higgins was another contributor with 26 touches and five tackles, but it was a day of sorrow for the Cats with few heroes to speak of.

South Barwon remain undefeated after two rounds of football. After the break, the Swans will meet St Joseph’s on Anzac Day at Herne Hill. Lara, on the other hand, will meet Grovedale on Sunday the 24th of April.

Goals

South Barwon: 8 A. Boseley, 2 O. Lee, 2 S. James, 2 M. Caldow, R.Dillion, J. Syddall, J. Carmody, J. Driver, B. Scott

Lara Seniors: D. Jose, B. Harvey, M. Day, B. Cockerill

Final Score

South Barwon: 19.16 (130)

Lara Seniors: 4.8 (32)

St Albans vs Bell Park

St Albans has suffered another poor defeat with the deficit being 102 points. Bell Park has responded to last week’s loss with an astounding roar.

Jackson Bright wreaked havoc last Saturday, finishing with seven majors, 16 marks, and 26 disposals.  Benjamin Worme was also keeping busy, with 27 touches, six clearance, and one goal. Nicholas Petering also made his presence felt up forward with four majors, complemented by Lachlan Patten with three of his own.

Despite the heavy loss Sam Donegan stood tall for St Albans. 31 disposals, eight clearances, and four inside 50’s showed his efforts, while Bailey Brudgon ended his day with 26 touches.

In two weeks, the Dragons will face Colac at Hamlyn Park. As for St Albans, they are off to a very slow start for the 2022 season. The Saints will need to regroup during the Easter break. Their next match is against Leopold, and they are going to need to show some fight if they are to get their season back on track.

Goals

St Albans: 2 J. Russell, H. Howarth, B.Miller, T. Johnston

Bell Park: 7 J. Bright, 4 N. Petering, 3 L. Patten, 2 W. McSparron, B. Worme, J. Fulton, C. Starcaveic, W. Christie

Final Score

St Albans: 5.7 (37)

Bell Park: 20.18(138)

Geelong West vs Grovedale

Fearing another tight loss, it was the Giants who ran rampant in the final term to seal the win over Grovedale by 16 points.

It was Baxter Mensch that proved to be unstoppable for the Giants racking up 37 touches, seven inside 50’s, and one major. Emmanuel Ajang had seven inside 50’s himself, collecting 32 touches in a tough game. Jacson Collins was the tip of the spear for Geelong West. In harsh weather conditions, Collins put three majors on the board which ultimately led to the Tigers’ defeat.

For Grovedale, it was Matt Harvey who put up another outstanding performance with 35 disposals and six inside 50’s. Harrison Whyte and Cassidy Parish also finished strongly combining 57 disposals for their efforts. Up forward, Flynn Young was the difference kicking four straight majors.

Geelong West is on the right track so far despite the close loss in Round 1. After Easter, they will have a chance to test themselves against a real contender in Newtown & Chilwell. Grovedale will be bitter about this loss after coming so close. Lara is their next opponent, and the Tigers will be looking to make a statement.

Goals

Geelong West Giants: 3 J. Collins, T. Stone, M. Kelly, T. Watts, S. Barnes, T. Lewis, M. Cousins, B. Mensch P. Moimoi

Grovedale: 4 F. Young, J. Baker, M. Chafer, C. Delaney, J. Dale, B Spicer

Final Score

Geelong West Giants: 11.12 (78)

Grovedale: 9.8 (62)

North Shore vs St Joseph’s

Due to North Shore’s inaccuracy in front of goal, St Joseph’s managed to hop away with a 13-point victory. The Seagulls came storming home in the last quarter, but unfortunately, the blitz came too late.

Brant Haintz and Luke Web were the showrunners for St Joseph’s. With their combined efforts, they amassed 48 disposals, with a kicking efficiency no lower than 88%. Jack Mentha was their only multiple goal scorer with two majors.

For North Shore, it was Nicholas Dixon who had another day out. A lazy 36 touches, with six clearances, ended his day on a good note. The next best was Brad Gerald at 26 with Jack Leonard and Noah Lever finishing with 24 disposals apiece. Like the Joey’s, the Seagulls had only one multiple goal scorer with two majors off the boot of Cooper Langdon.

North Shore will be disappointed with their accuracy in front of goal considering their previous performance against Lara previously. After the Easter holidays, they will face the reigning premiers in St Mary’s. St Joseph’s will also have a challenge when they meet South Barwon on Anzac Day.

Goals

North Shore: 2 C. Langdon, S. Witherdon, J. Patrick, J. Davenport, W. Milsome, J. Leonard, B. Smith                   

St Joseph’s:  2 J. Mentha, L. Web, F. Mccombe, J. Mullen, J. Gow, R. Kershaw, L. Antonac, J. Buckley, A. Gras

Final Score

North Shore: 8.15 (63)

St Joseph’s: 10.16 (76)

Colac vs St Mary’s

The reigning premiers continue their rampage as Colac fell to the champions by 54 points.

Harry Benson led the charge for St Mary’s, managing to find the ball 36 times and clearing it eight times from stoppages. Patrick Dowling also had another solid outing with 24 touches and four goals. Dowling is proving to be a handful in recent weeks.

For Colac, Lachlan Simpkin was a jet off the halfback flanks with 32 disposals. Ryan Monaghan and Ben McCarthy fought hard in the trenches to collect 31 disposals each. Unfortunately, it was not enough to withstand the onslaught of St Mary’s.

St Mary’s has proven they are still the team to beat. North Shore will get their chance against St Mary’s in the next round, but it will take an astounding effort to beat the reigning premiers. Colac will need to go back to the drawing board. Their next match is against Bell Park who are brewing with confidence after their demolition job of Lara.

Goals

Colac:  2 D. Lang, J. Williamson, S. Simpkin, D. Felekos, D. Walters, A. Hawker, L. Hillman

St Mary’s: 4 P. Dowling, 2 J. Dahlhaus, 2 T. Lang, 2 S. Bourke, J. Blood, H. Benson, D. McMahon, D. Chirgwin, M. Keast, J. Travaglini

Final Score

Colac: 8.9 (57)

St Mary’s: 16.15 (111)

Newtown and Chilwell vs Leopold

The Lions pushed hard against Newton & Chilwell, but the Eagles managed to keep Leopold at bay and win by 20 points.

Mathew Boag, Blake Sutterby, and Mitch Diamond all had 27 touches with an average disposal efficiency of 80%. Lachlan Bond again stepped up from last week’s proceedings, kicking a bag of five with Charlie Harris the next best with two.

On the other side of the coin, Luke Justin was steadfast in defiance for the Lions with 18 touches. Mitchell Patten was just as impressive up forward scoring two majors, one from the impossible angle. Leopold’s leading disposalist was Jake Pit with 20.

The Eagles will have to face the Giants after the break. Newtown & Chilwell have not lost a game yet sitting third on the ladder. Even in defeat, Geelong West has pushed teams to their limits. The Eagles should be wary of this upcoming game.  The Lions are now 1-1 for the season, their next match is at home against St Albans. Despite St Albans being at the bottom of the ladder, Leopold will want to come out firing from the opening bounce.

Goals

Newtown & Chilwell: 5 L. Bond, 2 C. Harris, M. Condy, J. Sheahan, M. Diamond, A.Pocock

Leopold: 2 M. Patten, S. Hughes, R. Maibaum, J. Edmonds, B. Clark, M. Thompson, J. Pitt

Final Score

Newtown & Chilwell: 11.9 (75)

Leopold: 8.7 (55)

Geelong West Giants vs Newtown& Chilwell

In the first half, the Giants were just behind the Eagles by three points, but as soon as the second half began, Newtown & Chilwell obliterated Geelong West by 47 points.

Next weekend, Geelong West will look to bounce back against Lara at the Giants’ home ground. Newtown & Chilwell remain undefeated and are flying with confidence. They will carry that into their next match against St Albans.

Best
Geelong West: M. Cossins, J. Collins, T. Lewis, B. Maurer, M. Kelly, D. Peel
Newtown & Chilwell: M. McMahon, L. Waddell, C. Byrne, T. Miles, M. Boag, C. Wilkinson

Goals
Geelong West: 2 J. Collins, D. Peel, E. Ajang, T. Lewis, P. Moimoi, J. Symes, T. Watts
Newtown & Chilwell: 3 L. Bond, 2 M. Diamond, 2 N. Harris, 2 J. Sheahan, 2 L. Waddell, M. Boag, C. Fopiani, C. Harris, T. Miles, T. Sauni

Final Score
Geelong West: 8.15 (63)
Newtown & Chilwell: 16.14 (110)

Bell Park vs Colac

After a great start from Bell Park, Colac managed to bridge the gap quickly in the first term. After taking the lead at halftime, the Tigers would go on to maul the Dragons by 53 points.

Bell Park’s next stop is Windsor Park where they will meet North Shore who is also coming off a monstrous loss to St Mary’s. Colac will battle Leopold in a fight that will dictate who sits in fourth place.

Best
Bell Park: D. Brown, J. Gorman, L. Patten, Z. Mirkovic, K. Petering
Colac: J. McCormack, K. Spokes, L. Simpkin, D. Lang, A. Garner, H. Walsh

Goals
Bell Park: J. Bright, H. Lear, H. Lucas, D. McDowell, L. Patten, N. Petering, B, Worme
Colac: 4 A. Garner, 3 D. Felekos, 3 J Simpkin, 2 L. Hillman, D. Lang, J. McGuane, K. Spokes

Final Score
Bell Park: 7.10 (52)
Colac: 15.15 (105)

Leopold vs St Albans

St Albans really took it up to Leopold in the first term, but the Lions fought back harder in the second with five unanswered goals. As the pressure mounted St Albans could not keep pace and North Shore claimed victory by 57 points.

Better signs from St Albans than in the previous rounds. But they will have to put in a four-quarter effort if they are to topple their next opponent in Newtown and Chilwell. For Leopold, it’s a battle of the big cats next Saturday when they take on Colac.

Best
St Albans: R. Maibaum, B. Williamson, J. Edmonds, P. Norton, L. Justin, O. Tate
Leopold: J. Saltalamacchia, W. Hough, J. Russell, B. Somers, B. Miller, T. Caudullo

Goals
St Albans: 2 B. Grills, T. Caudullo, W. Hough, B. Miller, A. Marsland
Leopold: 3 J. Edmonds, 3 M. Patten, 2 R. Maibaum, M. Case, B. Clark, J. Dickson, C. Giddings, P. Norton, M. Thompson

Final Score
St Albans: 7.5 (47)
Leopold: 14.20 (104)

St Mary’s vs North shore

St Mary’s continues their rampage as another team bites the dust. North Shore was keeping victory within reach for three quarters despite trailing in each term. In the final act, it was St Mary’s with eight unanswered goals that buried North Shore by 54 points.

St Mary’s will meet third-place South Barwon at McDonald Reserve for the only game on Sunday. The Seagulls will get their chance to bounce back against Bell Park.

Best
St Mary’s: N. Nott, H. Benson, J. Blood, H. Ling, M. Augerinos, J. Dahlhaus
North Shore: H. Purcell, N. Lever, K. Annand, N. Dixon, H. Carr, W. Milsome

Goals
St Mary’s: 5 P. Dowling, 3 S. Bourke, J. Dahlhaus, 2 M. Augerinos, 2 J. Blood, 2 H. Kol, 2 C. Sprague, D. McMahon
North Shore: 4 H. Carr, 2 W. Milsome, K. Annand, N. Lever, J. Sammut-miljevic, T. Schwennesen, J. Widdison

Final Score
St Mary’s: 19.15 (129)
North Shore: 11.9 (75)

Lara vs Grovedale

Grovedale started off slow against Lara, but the Cats fell away and the Tigers took the win comfortably by 29 points. Lara’s inaccuracy in front of goal proved to be their undoing.

With more scoring opportunities than Grovedale, Lara will need to fix their scoring accuracy when they meet Geelong West at West Oval Reserve. For Grovedale, their next match is against St Joseph this coming Saturday.

Best
Lara: J. Tomicic, C. Linehan-Cunningham, M. Day, T. Gunther, B. Goodwin, B. O’Brien
Grovedale: M. Chafer, H. Whyte, W. Ford, L. Smith, J. Tute, B. Morrissey

Goals
Lara: 3 M. Day, 2 D. Jose, B. Cockerill, B. Goodwin, T. Robertson
Grovedale: 3 M. Chafer, 3 C. Delaney, 2 C. Parish, 2 L. Smith, J. Dale, D. Kerr, J. Tute, F. Young

Final Score
Lara: 8.19 (67)
Grovedale: 14.12 (96)

St Joseph’s vs South Barwon

The Anzac Day game was nothing short of an arm-wrestle between South Barwon and St Joseph’s. The Swans got the better of the Joeys in the second term, but a hardened St Joseph’s claimed victory in the end by 14 points.

The Joeys are hopping along nicely this season, their next opponent will be Grovedale at Burdoo Reserve. South Barwon, on the other hand, will face the reigning premiers St Mary’s.

Best
St Joseph’s: L. Webb, J. Gow, B. Haintz, R. Adams, Z. Alderton, J. O’Dwyer
South Barwon: L. Davis, S. James, D. Madigan, A. Higgins, R. Gough, L. Noble

Goals
St Joseph’s: 3 A. Gras, 2 P. De Grandi, 2 F. Mccombe, Z. Alderton, L. Antonac, S. Clohesy, J. Hovey, J. Mullen
South Barwon: 3 A. Boseley, 2 R. Dillon, 2 L. Noble, M. Caldow, J. Carmody, J. Driver, B. Scott

Final Score
St Joseph’s: 12.12 (84)
South Barwon: 11.4 (70)

The Geelong Football Netball League (GFNL) will return to the Barwon region’s best Football & Netball facility with the 2024 Blood Toyota Grand Finals to be held at Kardinia Park, on Friday 27^th September (AFL Grand Final Public Holiday).

In developing this plan for 2024, significant discussions have transpired between AFL Barwon, the Kardinia Park Stadium Trust (KPST) and the Geelong Football Club (GFC). The three parties share a collective approach that community Football & Netball Grand Finals deserve to be played at the best regional sporting precinct in Australia.

KPST last hosted the Geelong FNL Finals in 2019, and AFL Barwon has shared a mutually beneficial and community-focused approach to exploring a return to Kardinia Park in 2024. The AFL Barwon & Geelong FC Strategic Partnership launched in May 2023, has spring boarded collaboration between the three organisations and has produced several strategic outcomes, for the benefit of the region, community stakeholders and Clubs alike.

This strategic decision between AFLB, KPST & GFC is aimed to enhance the overall experience for participants and spectators alike, setting the stage for an exciting and memorable event.

Kardinia Park Stadium Trust CEO Gerard Griffin was quoted, 

“The Trust is thrilled to again host the local 2024 Geelong Football Netball League Grand Final at GMHBA Stadium.”

“With the collaboration of our three organisations, we can have this aspect of community sport, both football and netball back into the precinct where they rightfully belong”.

AFL Barwon Regional General Manager, Edward Wilson was quoted, 

““AFL Barwon shares incredibly strong partnerships with both the Geelong Football Club as well as Kardinia Park Stadium Trust. This announcement secures a future that promotes and elevates our region, to the platform it deserves. We’re grateful for the continued support of both GFC & KPST, and their community-focused mindsets to support the growth of both Football & Netball within the Barwon region. This tri-parity partnership is uniquely Barwon, and we look forward to collectively working together in years to come”. “

Geelong Football Club’s Chief Strategy & Growth Officer and General Counsel, Marcus King was quoted,

“We’re pleased to support AFL Barwon in having the biggest day on the GFNL calendar return to Kardinia Park and to see community football Grand Finals played on the hallowed turf of GMHBA Stadium again.

 “We see GMHBA Stadium, and the Kardinia Park precinct, as the home of sporting and special events for the region, and we look forward to continuing to work with the Kardinia Park Stadium Trust and AFL Barwon to ensure a highly successful day for our community and all involved.

Leisure Networks and AFL Barwon are pleased to announce a new partnership, with Leisure Networks recognised as “The Official Inclusion Partner” to AFL Barwon. As well as continuing to lead development of inclusive opportunities in AFL and Netball, the partnership will strengthen delivery of mental health support to local clubs through the Tackle Your Feelings Program.

“We are excited by the possibilities this partnership will open up, not just for Leisure Networks, but for the community we support,” said David Meade, CEO Leisure Networks. “Our whole purpose at Leisure Networks is to connect people with community and sport is such an important vehicle to make this happen. As well as the physical and mental rewards we get from playing sport, there’s also all the social benefits. Nothing beats the feeling of comradery and belonging you get from being part of a sporting club.

“The all abilities footy and netball competitions we support under the AFL Barwon banner have given more people living with disability a lifetime first experience of actively participating in their local club, playing as part of a team,” continued Mr. Meade. “Games are played in a friendly safe environment, which means people of all skill level, all ages and all genders are accepted. It’s all about providing opportunities for people to play sport, people who wouldn’t otherwise be able to without these All-Abilities competitions.

“And as I’ve said, it’s not just about playing sport,” Mr. Meade explained. “Take Sean ‘the Bossman’ for instance. Sean’s been the waterboy at Geelong West Giants for more than a decade. Then last year, thanks to the AFL Barwon Inclusion League, he’s now a team captain at his favourite club.”

“To be able to put on the Giants jumper, on the footy field,” said Sean. “Is something I’ve wanted to be able to do for a long time.” 

“AFL Barwon is proud to have delivered several key community initiatives and engagement opportunities over a long period,” said Edward Wilson, Regional General Manager, AFL Barwon, “and the recent establishment of the first-of-its-kind, multi-sport All Abilities League, is testament to the collaborative partnership between the two organisations.

 “AFL Barwon is extremely pleased with the establishment of this new era in partnership with Leisure Networks, and we’re excited as to what this will deliver for the local community”.

“The AFL Barwon All Abilities Football Netball League season will kick off with the Netball season starting on April 23, followed by a Football double header at GMHBA Stadium on Saturday April 27, thanks to the support of the Kardinia Park Stadium Trust.”

About Leisure Networks

Leisure Networks is a not-for-profit organisation based in Geelong, having provided services for people with a disability for more than 30 years. The organisation provides opportunities for people to connect with their community in a variety of ways including participation in sport and recreation, skill-building, and array of social and leisure activities.

www.leisurenetworks.org

In partnership with and supported by Read the Play and the Committee for Geelong, AFL Barwon is proud to present the Mentally Healthy Sporting Clubs Framework.

This framework contains information, tips and resources to help you, your club and your members both on and off the field and court to navigate mental health in 2022.

You may find some of the resources helpful and informative, but if you or anyone you know requires any urgent support, you should contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659
467. If it’s an emergency, then call 000.

Download the Mentally Healthy Sporting Clubs Framework via the button below. The framework is also permanently available on aflbarwon.com.au under Club Resources.

Vision Requests

Portarlington v Queenscliff

• At the request of the officiating umpires the MRP viewed vision of an incident in the second quarter of the Portarlington v Queenscliff Senior match on Saturday 14^th May 2022 of an alleged dangerous tackle by Will Foott #9 Portarlington against Justin Maher #1 Queenscliff.

It was determined that Will Foott be reported for engaging in rough conduct on Justin Maher with what was considered a dangerous tackle and have offered a 2 match Set Penalty in this instance.

• At the request of the officiating umpires the MRP were asked to review an incident that occurred in the third quarter, of a possible strike that may have occurred off the play. No incident was captured on vision.

South Barwon v Leopold

• At the request of the officiating umpires the MRP viewed vision of an incident in the fourth quarter of the South Barwon v Leopold Senior match on Saturday 14^th May 2022. After reviewing the incident, the MRP deemed that their was no reportable incident and the correct free kick was paid.

Geelong West Giants v St Josephs

• At the request of the Geelong West Giants the MRP viewed vision of a possible strike in an incident that occurred during the 2nd quarter of the Geelong West Giants v St Josephs Senior match on Saturday 14^th May 2022.

The MRP deemed that Riley Ferguson #31 St Josephs be reported for carelessly striking Angus Codd #24 Geelong West Giants and have offered a 1 match Penalty in this instance.

Inverleigh v East Geelong

• At the request of the officiating umpires the MRP viewed vision of an incident in the second quarter of the Inverleigh v East Geelong Senior match on Saturday 14^th May 2022. No incident was captured on vision.

Reports

Colac v St Albans

• MRP viewed vision of a report that occurred during the second quarter of the Senior match Colac v St Albans where Darcy Lang #25 Colac was reported for intentionally striking Brock McDonald # 32 St Albans. After reviewing vision, it was determined that a 1 match penalty was appropriate in this instance.

Werribee Centrals v Anakie

• MRP viewed vision of a report that occurred during the second quarter of the Senior match Werribee Centrals v Anakie where Cameron Keena #59 Werribee Centrals was reported for engaging in rough conduct on Hayden Leech #38 Anakie. It was determined that the 2 match set penalty as offered was appropriate.

• MRP viewed vision of a report that occurred during the third quarter of the Senior match Werribee Centrals v Anakie where Jordan Baumgartner #9 Anakie was reported for engaging in rough conduct on Kai Gomes-Pattiyago Werribee Centrals #17. It was determined that the 2 match set penalty as offered was appropriate.

Where a Set Penalty has been offered, both clubs involved have until 10.00am Tuesday 17^th May  to request the matter be heard at Tribunal, or the Set Penalty will apply as offered.

Anglesea v Newcomb

• At the request of Anglesea FNC the MRP viewed vision of a possible strike in an incident that occurred after the half time siren of the Anglesea v Newcomb Senior match on Saturday 21^st May 2022.

The MRP deemed that whilst it was unnecessary and had the potential to escalate, the action of #33 Newcomb on #50 Anglesea was not deemed reportable.

Torquay v Queenscliff

• At the request of Torquay FNC the MRP viewed vision of potential rough conduct by #8 Queenscliff and a potential striking incident by #1 Queenscliff on #49 Torquay that were alleged to have occurred during a melee at the end of the 2^nd Whilst the official vision did not show the incidents or the melee, unofficial vision provided by Torquay was viewed by the MRP. No striking offences were noted and the action of #8 Queenscliff was not deemed reportable by the MRP.
• Both clubs have been issued fines of $500 of which $250 will be suspended for the remainder of the 2022 season for their respective involvement in the melee.

Geelong West Giants v Bell Post Hill

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of a melee that occurred during the 2^nd quarter of the Geelong West Giants v Bell Post Hill senior match. No reportable offences were noted and the Melee was not deemed sufficient for any penalties to be applied in this instance.

St Albans v North Shore

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of a melee that occurred during the 1^st quarter of the St Albans v North Shore senior match. No reportable offences were noted and the Melee was not deemed sufficient for any penalties to be applied in this instance.

Newtown & Chilwell v South Barwon

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of an incident in the second quarter of the Newtown & Chilwell v South Barwon Senior match on Saturday 21^st May 2022 involving Lachlan Bond #15 Newtown & Chilwell and Todd Smith #28 South Barwon.

It was determined that Lachlan Bond be reported for striking Todd White and have offered a 2 match Set Penalty in this instance.

Inverleigh v Thomson

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of an incident that occurred during the 3^rd quarter of the Senior match Inverleigh v Thomson involving #24 Inverleigh and #43 Thomson. The incident was not deemed reportable. No charge laid.

• At the request of Inverleigh FNC, the MRP viewed vision of an incident that occurred during the 3^rd quarter of the Senior match Inverleigh v Thomson involving #7 Thomson Daniel Freeman and  #8 Inverleigh Lachlan Buyel. The MRP have reported Daniel Freeman for Rough Conduct through a dangerous tackle. A 2 match set penalty has been offered.

Bannockburn v North Geelong

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of an incident in the fourth quarter of the Bannockburn v North Geelong Senior match on Saturday 21^st May 2022 involving Brett Harding #19 Bannockburn and Dylan Fisher #18 North Geelong.

It was determined that Brett Harding be reported for carelessly striking Dylan Fisher and have offered a 1 match Set Penalty in this instance.

Geelong Amateur v Ocean Grove

• At the request of the officiating umpires, the MRP viewed vision of 3 separate melees that occurred during and at the end of the 3^rd The vision as viewed by the MRP indicated a large number of players from both sides involved, which was unnecessarily prolonged through further actions from both sides.

Both clubs have been issued fines of $1250 of which $750 will be suspended for the remainder of the 2022 season for their respective involvement in the melee.

Where reports have been laid, both clubs involved have until 10.00am Tuesday 24^th May  to request the matter be heard at Tribunal, or the Set Penalty will apply as offered.

Reports

St Mary’s v St Joseph’s

• The MRP viewed vision of a report that was laid by the officiating umpire against #16 St Joseph’s Joel O’Dwyer for Carelessly Striking #22 St Mary’s Darcy Chirgwin. They deemed that the vision reflected the action was not reportable by nature and in consultation with the umpire, the charge has been withdrawn.

Torquay v Queenscliff

• The MRP viewed vision of a report that was laid by the officiating umpires against #15 Queenscliff Lachlan Cohen for Rough Conduct on #25 Torquay Chase Loftus. They deemed that the vision reflected the action was not reportable by nature and in consultation with the umpires, the charge has been withdrawn.

Geelong West Giants v Bell Post Hill

• The MRP viewed vision of a report that was laid by the officiating umpire against #16 Bell Post Hill Dylan Witney for Carelessly Striking #1 Geelong West Giants Blake Dye. They deemed that the vision reflected the action was not reportable by nature and in consultation with the umpire, the charge has been withdrawn.