Chris Febvre • February 4, 2021
Female Football League Returns for 2021
Female Football League Returns for 2021
The North East Border Female Football League (NEB FFL) and its member clubs are excited to be returning to the field in 2021.
Following a successful year in 2019, the season was cancelled for 2020 as the country navigated the COVID-19 pandemic. The year did present brief windows of opportunity for clubs to train and play practice games under State Government approved COVID-19 protocols, however the 2021 season will be the first time many players have competed in football since the 2019 season.
League Operations Manager, Matthew Elliott, said that after the challenges faced by community sport last year, it was great to see clubs preparing for the 2021 season.
“All of the clubs greatly missed playing football last year, so to see them start preseason training and welcome back their players is fantastic.
“Everyone is of course adjusting to life in the wake of the pandemic, although preparations for the season are well underway and we are looking forward to delivering a full season in 2021”.
The NEB FFL features competitions in three age groups, being U14’s, U17’s, and Open Women’s. The 2021 season will be the inaugural year for the U14 competition, with previous years consisting of an U16’s and Open Women’s format. With the introduction of the U14 competition, the league aims to provide greater opportunities for women and girls of all ages to play football in a safe and competitive environment.
In 2021, the league will feature eight clubs competing for the Premiership; Alpine Lions (based in Whorouly), Lavington Panthers, Murray Felines (based in Rutherglen), Thurgoona Bulldogs, Wangaratta Rovers, Wodonga Bulldogs, Wodonga Raiders and Yarrawonga Pigeons. The clubs boast several seasons competing in the league, however this year will mark the first time Wodonga Bulldogs have entered teams in the competition.
With clubs in the North East region commencing training as the new season approaches, Elliott encouraged any interested players to contact their local club and be involved.
“Our clubs are full of passionate and energetic people, who are committed to providing opportunities to women and girls of all ages and abilities to play football in a safe and welcoming environment.
“Whether you are an experienced player or completely new to football, each club is inclusive and coupled with their enthusiasm for growing the sport, everyone is welcome to enjoy playing football”.
Anybody interested in playing football is encouraged to contact their local club directly or contact Matthew Elliott at AFL North East Border on (02) 6056 1993 for more information.
The 2021 season is due to commence on Sunday 11th April.
Clubs
Alpine Lions: Rajanna Costenaro – 0429 857 876
Lavington Panthers: Scott Curphey – 0417 781 707
Murray Felines: Nadine Nicholson – 0433 782 646
Thurgoona Bulldogs: Chloe Beck – 0482 888 232
Wangaratta Rovers: Rick Marklew – 0409 430 749
Wodonga Bulldogs: Kathryn Dalton – 0418 699 853
Wodonga Raiders: Skye Burgess – 0411 572 741
Yarrawonga Pigeons: Sheree Spiteri – 0418 514 710
2024 saw the launch of the AFL North East Border Volunteer Recognition Program, proudly supported by one of our long standing partners, APCO! The program recognised 20 volunteers across the region each week throughout the footy season and will do the same once again in 2025. The categories include - Club Volunteer Umpire/Club Umpire Junior/Youth Coach Auskick Coordinator/Volunteer Clubs are welcome to nominate one of their hard working volunteers throughout the year, and if they are selected they will receive a $50 APCO voucher to use in an APCO store near you. Nominations can be submitted by clicking on the following link - VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION NOMINATION FORM
Two local football netball clubs are set to receive a funding boost to upgrade their lighting infrastructure through the Country Football Netball funding program! The Milawa Football Netball Club who compete in the Ovens & King FNL and Barnawartha Football Netball Club competing in the Tallangatta & District Football League will both receive funding through the Country Football Netball Program which through a partnership between the Victorian Government, AFL, AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria aims to support county football and netball clubs infrastructure improvements and developments. A total of 7 clubs across Victoria received funding in this round, and with two clubs successful in the North East it is a great outcome for football in the region and both clubs should be congratulated for the work they have put in to be successful! We look forward to seeing these projects come to life! For more information on the program and other success applicants please click here - https://play.afl/victoria/news/funding-boost-country-football-facilities?fbclid=IwY2xjawIx1hdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHYxTMXDPhmQhLOMmUjo6YAkpXU-dFqKLUzVdYIegdiFK2xGe-yf-PgwBiA_aem_EdgEJ5XDtkeJH8VGU35rfA
2025 saw AFLNEB host there now annual Club Development Day which had a focus on upskilling those who are hands on during game days throughout the season! With over 45 attendees participating in three dynamic workshops - - Club Umpire Session, - Coaching Masterclass Session, and - Building Stronger Clubs Workshop - Our Community Club Leaders and dedicated Volunteers are now equipped with the resources and skills to tackle the upcoming season! Additionally, more than 25 Sports Trainers benefited from the Level 1 Sports Trainer Course, enhancing their expertise and readiness. Massive thank you to La Trobe University Albury-Wodonga for hosting us at their amazing campus! We wish all the clubs the best for the upcoming season and look forward to further supporting them with additional sessions throughout the year!
