New season on horizon
AFLDD is ready to bounce with big season openers
AUSTRALIAN RULES: A new dawn has risen upon the AFL Darling Downs competition, as 11 teams line up for their shot at glory. The Allied Pickford’s Cup kicks off this Saturday, as the USQ Cougars aim to win their third successive title, with a number of new contenders gunning for their crown. AFLQ Darling Downs regional manager Jeff Neumann said the one division created an exciting competition for the year ahead. “With the men’s competition being one division, it gives opportunities for teams across all grades to be at the same venue,” Neumann said. “I think it’s going to be a very competitive season and we’re looking forward to the first bounce.
“The pre-season is always a tough time, whether you’re a rookie or played a few seasons. The players will be looking to get onto the track and have a kick around for competition points.”
The Cougars have won the last two premierships, but Neumann said it wouldn’t be easy for them to make it three in a row.
“The Swans and Redbacks played in the division two grand final last year, and Highfields and co will be coming up. It’s going to be hard to pick a winner,” he said.
“The Cougars are the team to beat. They’ve shown why by going back to back. Goondiwindi have been at the top of division one for a while now, and with South Burnett and Coolaroo, as well as the Tigers recruiting pretty well, it’s going to be a good competition.”
The first round of fixtures will feature a grand final rematch between USQ and Goondiwindi, as well as a replay of the division two decider between Warwick and Dalby.
The women’s Westpac Cup also launches this weekend and Neumann said the race would be tight amongst the seven teams.
“The Tigers are three-time premiers, and have been the benchmark that everyone is going to be hunting,” he said.
“Dalby and South Burnett are going to be pushing to get over the line as well. It’s going to be a big season.”
The women’s competition will feature seven teams, with the addition of the USQ Cougars and Coolaroo to the existing five sides.
■ The AFLDD season launch will take place at Heritage Oval on Friday night at 6.30pm.
Entry is free, with full bar and canteen facilities available.
For more information, contact your local club or e-mail: aflddsecretary18@gmail.com.
WEEK ONE FIXTURES (ALL GAMES PLAYED ON SATURDAY)
MENS 2.30pm: Chinchilla vs Highfields, South Burnett vs Coolaroo, Toowoomba vs South Toowoomba, USQ vs Goondiwindi, Warwick vs Dalby.
WOMENS 12.45pm: South Burnett vs Coolaroo, USQ vs Dalby. 4.50pm: Toowoomba vs South Toowoomba