THE proposed introduction of a Men’s Over 35s Masters competition next year is set to attract an entire new generation of footballers to the GRFC competition – many of whom have been lost to the game in recent years.

The 16 team Men’s Division Three competition found itself bursting at the seams in 2015, as such the league structure and management of the competition was severely tested.

With the introduction of a Masters’ division, it is expected to reduce the size of teams participating in next year’s Division Three – thus ensuring smoother management of the competition – as well as facilitating the return of players who have not played competitive football for years.

Although it is envisaged that a minimum of six teams will be required to start a Masters’ league, there is every likelihood that the inaugural competition could attract as many as 8-10 teams.

Clubs such as Elcho Park Cardinals, Drysdale, Barwon, Geelong, Bell Park, Bellarine Sharks, Barwon Heads, Geelong Rangers, Surf Coast and Surfside have all been mentioned as possible candidates to field teams in the inaugural Over 35s Masters’ league.

Depending on the success of the concept, it is envisaged that future seasons of the Masters’ leagues could result in the splitting of the competition into Over 35s and Over 45s divisions.

PHOTO: Clubs such as Geelong Rangers (pictured), as well as several others from the region, have been mentioned as possible candidates to field teams in the inaugural GRFC  Over 35s Masters’ league next year (Photo: k-van Photography, Karen Vanderchys)