The Future of Football and Netball in South Australia’s South East Hangs in the Balance
The grand finals for the Western Border Football League and Netball League in South Australia’s South East were dominated by Millicent, who took home all five of the senior football and netball premierships. However, the future of football and netball in the region hangs in the balance as discussions about potential reforms continue.
The South East region is currently home to three separate football leagues: the Western Border Football League (WBFL), the Mid-South East FL, and the Kowree Naracoorte Tatiara FL. Concerns have been raised about the competitiveness of the WBFL, which currently has only six teams. In response, a working group was formed by the South Australian National Football League (SANFL) to explore potential reforms.
Initially, there was a proposal to merge the three leagues into two, but that idea was ultimately scrapped. Additionally, three clubs that were approached to switch to the WBFL decided against the move. As a result, the SANFL is expected to make a decision about the future of the leagues in the coming weeks.
WBFL president Michael Summers expressed confidence in the league’s current structure and highlighted the support and quality showcased during the grand finals. However, he acknowledged the desire for more varied competition. The focus is on finding ways to attract additional clubs and foster increased competition, with the hope that the SANFL will work collaboratively to develop a viable solution.
Netball in the South East is also divided into the same three leagues as football. The netball teams are eagerly awaiting news about the potential restructure and how it will impact their competitions. Di Gould, the secretary of the Western Border Netball Association, emphasized the sport’s readiness to adapt alongside football and support the changes that may be implemented.
The fate of football and netball in South Australia’s South East hangs in the balance as the SANFL considers the future of the leagues. While the WBFL demonstrated its strength with a successful grand final, the focus remains on attracting more clubs and creating a more competitive environment. Netball is committed to aligning with any changes in football and is prepared to adjust its structure accordingly.
As the coming weeks unfold, stakeholders in both sports eagerly await news from the SANFL about the path forward. The outcome of these discussions will shape the future of football and netball in South Australia’s South East, potentially leading to a more vibrant and competitive sporting landscape.
