Our team of journalists have spoken to all senior coaches, club presidents and other leaders in the past month to provide readers with a comprehensive guide to how each club is shaping up ahead of the 2025 seasons.
Sport plays a fundamental role in our society – and there is nothing like the popularity of football and netball in our region.
Senior football and A Grade netball provide the top-tier competitions – and are the focus of much of our lift-out.
Country footy is the closest thing we have to a professional sporting competition in our region.
Like it or not, the payment of footballers is a part of the game, and from what we’re hearing, it is now starting to creep into A Grade netball as well.
While so much focus is on the players, the overall importance that clubs play in many people’s lives is paramount to our communities.
Clubs not only provide a social outlet, an avenue to form friendships, and a place for connection to a wide range of people in our community, they are integral in supporting any of their members who need a helping hand.
In some communities, particularly smaller or remote locations, they form the central hub for people to gather, socialise and have fun.
At the end of the day, they bring a lot of joy to a lot of people’s lives.
Aside from the actual physical benefits of playing, umpiring or filling another volunteer role, clubs provide several advantages to people’s health and wellbeing.
And with more opportunities for clubs to expand and provide football for women and girls at a local level, it also opens up more options to engage more members, families and sponsors.
Clubs must adapt to a changing society – and embracing change will result in greater engagement, greater inclusion, and greater success.
No longer can success be measured in senior football flags – while that’s what everyone is striving for – there is so much more involved in the current era.
Take, for example, Minyip-Murtoa Football Netball Club which is in the midst of driving two key infrastructure projects for both Murtoa and Minyip, that will not only benefit their club but their wider communities.
And can we take a moment to appreciate each of the club’s committees, particularly their presidents, who give up countless hours of their time to ensure it all comes together.
Honestly, the role of club president is akin to a full-time job these days and the support required, by both their families and committees, is an example of it taking a village to ensure the club functions successfully.
So, to all the clubs – players, committees, volunteers and supporters, league officials, and umpires – we wish you the best of luck for the season ahead.
The entire April 2, 2025 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!
