We are thrilled to be playing the Essendon District League today in the 2016 AFL Victoria Community Championships.
There is no doubt that under the new format this will be a great test for us against one of the premier metropolitan leagues but we look forward to giving a good account of ourselves.
The GVFL considers Interleague to be a great concept where we can give our players an opportunity to play representative football against the best from other competitions. Our Clubs and players have been very supportive and as a result we have had a strong list to pick from in both teams.
From an Under 18 perspective we have had real success in recent years and were really disappointed at our youngsters not being able to show their ability last year. We thank the EDFL for consenting to playing the game with the Under 18.5s which should be a great show piece. This also gives some of our players who missed out last year an opportunity to play.
A number of people have brought our Interleague journey to this stage and I thank Board member Freddo McMahon, the Board as a whole for their commitment, AFL Goulburn Murray League Operations Manager Simon Devine, coaches Scott Beattie and Jason Wells and their support teams. Your efforts are really appreciated. It takes a lot of time and effort to assess contenders for the team, including travelling to see players in action, selection and then training, particularly in a regional competition.
To the players, being selected in the Interleague side is a real achievement and I know you will enjoy the experience.
To the umpires, congratulations for being selected for this important fixture, your role in our competition is vital and much appreciated.
As League we are fortunate to have a team of very supportive sponsors led by GoTafe who have been with us for a number of years and in season 2016 have provided additional support by helping with team apparel. Thanks also to our other interleague sponsors WIN TV, Veolia and the Shepparton News.
We are delighted that the game will be broadcast back to the Goulburn Valley through our broadcast partner ONE FM with the support of the EDFL radio broadcaster.
Finally thank you to the Board and Administration of the EDFL for hosting us and making us feel welcome.
Enough from me, let's get on with the games; I'm really looking forward to them.
Last Modified on 27/09/2016 17:24