Following unsuccessful efforts over the past 12 months by the Merimbula FC (`Marlins'), assisted and supported by the Sapphire Coast AFL, to merge first with Merimbula Diggers FC, and more lately with Pambula FC, both initiatives subsequently rejected by merger club members, the Marlins last week advised the League that while it still wished to nominate teams in Seniors and all junior grades for 2008, it could not guarantee that forfeits, and perhaps multiple forfeits across all grades, would not occur during the upcoming season.
Looking first to its responsibility to foster a strong and viable competition in the region, and secondly in light of its stated preference for one full strength club based in Merimbula, the League has determined that the Marlins will not compete in any grades in the 2008 season, but retain its membership of the League in recess for the year, while its committee endeavours to rebuild the club's player list, and will review the situation in advance of season 2009.
League Chairman, Geoff Cloke, noted that efforts by the Marlins committee over the past 12 months to find a solution to their situation are commendable, and while accepting the member decisions of prospective merger clubs, the League is disappointed at the outcome of those initiatives. Merimbula FC has a proud history in the League, being an inaugural member club and the most prolific winner of Senior Premierships, seven in total. It has a strong committee and volunteer base with a healthy financial position, which would have brought additional strength to either merger club, along with a small but dedicated player base.
The priority of the League now is to ensure all Marlins players and members are retained within the AFL Code, and further that any player who decides to register with another SCAFL affiliated Club remains eligible for immediate clearance back to Merimbula FC in the event of their reinstatement for season 2009, should they so desire.
Notwithstanding this outcome, the Home and Away season will still comprise a balanced draw of 17 rounds commencing on Saturday, 19 April, 2008.
Last Modified on 11/02/2008 14:50