Falcons to kick off in August

THE Geelong Falcons will return to the field in August under a revised NAB League fixture announced yesterday.

News that the elite junior league will launch on August 22 came a day after AFL Victoria announced that the Victorian Football League would commence on August 1.

Under the revised schedule, the Falcons will play five matches in a six-team country conference featuring the Dandenong Stingrays, Bendigo Pioneers, Greater Western Victoria Rebels, Murray Bushrangers and Gippsland Power.

A metro division will host games between the Northern Knights, Eastern Ranges, Calder Cannons, Western Jets, Sandringham Dragons and Oakleigh Chargers.

The fixture allows for a grand final between the ladder leaders from each conference, with remaining teams to play a rival side to ensure all players have the opportunity to play an equal number of games.

AFL head of talent pathways and state league competitions Tristan Salter said while the competition would look different, the fact it was going ahead was an outstanding result.

“All levels of the game across the country have been impacted by the health pandemic this year,” Salter said.

“While we would prefer to provide a standard season of NAB League football, this outcome ensures an opportunity for many players to continue their journey in the talent pathway.

“We know how much these competitions mean to players, coaches, officials, volunteers and fans and we look forward to working together to ensuring all clubs return to play in a safe and well-managed environment.

“We are excited about the return of community and school footy and players are being encouraged to engage in these formats before returning to test themselves in the NAB League competition.”

The NAB League will provide an opportunity to push for Vic Metro and Vic Country selection in a team of the year selected at the end of the season.

But a date for this year’s draft is yet to be confirmed.

The NAB girls’ season will recommence on September 5.