Clubs put rescue strategy

THE seven TSL clubs have voiced official support for Tasmania to return to the VFL and the TAC Cup — but only if it is underpinned by a strong state league.

The presidents have sent a joint statement to tomorrow’s AFL steering committee meeting via AFL Tasmania chief executive Trisha Squires outlining their hopes, which include: A SEVEN- team TSL competition to stay, with a minimum of $1.3 million backing for the teams and TSL administration. The backing would be indexed annually at CPI. A TEAM on the North-West Coast or an extra one in Launceston is desired but this needs to be explored as a business case with appropriate financing for the eighth team in addition to the $1.3 million. THE return of a Tasmanian team to the VFL. THE return of a Tasmanian team to the TAC Cup. NO change to the TSL name or brand. THE current TSL licences with AFL Tasmania to be fully honoured.

The presidents said the rebirth of Tasmania’s VFL club, the Devils, was welcome but only if it were “funded externally and in addition to the TSL and has no impact on current or future TSL funding” and was managed independently of the state league.

“All seven TSL clubs would appreciate the opportunity to be involved and consulted on how the linkages between the TSL and this team would be constructed and operate harmoniously into the future,” the statement said.

It was a similar push for the Mariners’ full-time return to the TAC Cup, supported by three regional talent zones and talent managers, provided it had no impact on TSL funding.

“All seven TSL clubs are committed to working constructively with the talent managers to provide the professional environment within which they can develop the players to their full potential,” they wrote.

The clubs were told when they met Squires, AFL game development manager Rob Auld and AFL state league manager Simon Laughton on Thursday that it was either the TSL or the VFL, but not both, and there was no more money either way.

But this stance had softened by Friday, with the option of both back on the table.

The presidents are still seek a commitment to the current li- cence signed by the clubs and AFL Tasmania.

“We also [expect] that our current licence agreements are honoured by the AFL until their expiry in 2023.

“We see no just cause for either parties to seek early termination.”

The steering committee will meet tomorrow. The next meeting between the TSL clubs and AFL Tasmania will be on May 22.

AFL chief Gillon McLachlan plans to return to Tasmania this month.