General Updates
Key Updates
The Real MVP – Marathon Foods Volunteer Program recognises and rewards the unsung heroes who make community football and netball possible.
This initiative honours the volunteers who represent the heart and soul of their clubs — the ones who go above and beyond to keep things running behind the scenes.
AFL Barwon has teamed up with global sauce and condiments brand Lee Kum Kee to launch the Lee Kum Kee Community Initiative for the 2025 season!
This exciting new program invites clubs to take part in a fun and creative video challenge using Lee Kum Kee products, with a $4,000 prize up for grabs to support a club improvement project.
If clubs are wanting product to support your ssubmission, please email
ENTRIES DEADLINE CHANGED UNTIL JULY 30TH!
Thank you to those who have already shared the content pieces for our Female Festival of Sport – your support is greatly appreciated.
This is a friendly reminder that we’re still seeking your club’s engagement on the points below so we can celebrate the incredible women and girls across all AFL Barwon clubs.
FEMALE CLUB CHAMPIONS
This is a chance to recognise and reward the hard work and dedication of one exceptional female in your club who has made an outstanding contribution.
Use the template link here to share on your club social media page and tag @aflbarwon
AUSKICK, NET SET GO & U9, U10 & 11&U FEMALE PLAYER VIDEOS
We want to hear from the female players at your clubs on some of the things they love about playing football and netball.
A selection of these videos will be played at the Female Festival of Sport Breakfast on Friday July 4th.
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BFNL
Senior Football
5/7/25 - Torquay vs Anglesea - 2:10pm
A Grade Netball
5/7/25 - Portarlington vs Barwon Heads - 11:50am
GFNL
Senior Football
6/7/25 - St Mary's vs Leopold - 1:10pm
A Grade Netball
5/7/25 - Geelong West vs South Barwon - 1:40pm
CDFNL
Senior Football
5/7/25 - Birregurra vs Colac Imperials - 2:15pm
AFL Barwon wish to bring to your attention the importance of being aware of what is being posted on social media as well as comments that club members may also make on posts regardless of if it is another club’s post or AFL Barwon. This also is important when contacting people within our sporting community on these platforms.
The local and social media play an integral role in promoting football and netball across our region. As a community, we are fortunate to have strong footprints in both mediums that actively supports our clubs and AFL Barwon.
We encourage clubs to promote and celebrate important achievements and to engage with both traditional ways and social media when the intent is to positively contribute to the growth of the game and uphold respect for all members of our community.
Unfortunately, a small minority within our region have not acted with these intentions. As a result, we would like to remind clubs of the by-law relating to Unauthorised Media Statements. This rule exists to protect all clubs from public commentary regarding the policies and actions of AFL Barwon, its committees, or other clubs under AFL Barwon governance. We take this rule seriously and strongly encourage clubs to remind members in official capacities of the consequences and potential sanctions for any breaches. We also draw your attention to the AFL Social Media Policy, which outlines the standards expected of all members when using social media in connection with community football and netball. Adherence to this policy is essential to maintaining a respectful environment across our platforms.
Community sport is a passionate space, and differing opinions and perspectives are natural. We welcome respectful discussion and the constructive challenging of the status quo, but this must be done within the rules and with consideration for others in our sporting community.
We encourage clubs to continue promoting the games and the outstanding work being done across the region, but ask that all communications, including those on social media, be carried out with respect for all.
Please see below the AFL Barwon Policies and AFL National Community Handbook to refer to Media and Social Media Policies:
AFL Barwon Policies
AFL National Community Handbook
Download a Canva template via the button below to promote respect at your club!
At AFL Barwon, we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive and respectful environment for everyone involved in our game — players, coaches, umpires, volunteers, and supporters alike.
Whether you're on the field, on the sidelines, or supporting from afar, your words and actions matter.
✅ Support in an positive way
✅ Encourage fair play and sportsmanship
✅ Respect our umpires and volunteers — the game doesn't run without them
✅ Be kind online — what you say behind a screen still has real impact
Let’s lead by example and make sure footy and netball remain spaces where our whole community can thrive.
If you see or experience behaviour that doesn’t align with these values, report it to your club. If there are still concerns beyond this, please don't hesitate to reach out to AFL Barwon for support.
Respect the game. Respect each other. Respect yourself.
Reminders
Do you know an amazing community club volunteer?
Nominate them for the 2025 National Volunteer Awards and recognise them for their incredible contribution and dedication each season.
Category prizes include a money-can’t-buy 2025 Toyota AFL Grand Final experience and keys to a brand new Toyota.
Commercial Partnerships
New Updates
Registrations Are Now Open! Serenity in the Stadium 2025 is back-bigger, brighter, and more mindful than ever.
Join us at GMHBA Stadium 8am on Sunday 19 October for a powerful morning of yoga, connection, and community. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or just starting out, this event is about moving your body, calming your mind, and celebrating wellbeing in a space that brings us together.
Early bird tickets are on sale on the link below
Reminders
AFL Barwon is proud to announce a new three-year partnership with HITIQ, a leading provider of concussion management technology, naming HITIQ as the Official Concussion Technology Partner of AFL Barwon.
This partnership will see HITIQ’s innovative PROTEQT smart mouthguard showcased across the AFL Barwon region, enhancing player safety and wellbeing for more than 25,000 participants. This important initiative will support our continued focus on player welfare and strengthen concussion education and management across all levels of community sport.
The Geelong Football Club is calling on nominations for the 2025 Carter/Costa Award and RJ Hickey Award.
Recipients of the Carter/Costa Award and RJ Hickey Award will be announced at the Annual General Meeting or another appropriate event in 2025.
Do you know anyone who has injured their knee in the past 6 months?
Unique opportunity to be involved in an important nationwide project led by La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Center.
The Australian Knee Injury Study is a registry of knee injuries to help our healthcare system get a better understanding of the extent of knee injuries in Australia, the types of assessments and treatments provided, and the long-term outcomes. It is entirely online (5 min questionnaires) and confidential.
Visit our website for more information: www.kneeinjurystudy.com.au
Club Development
The Lead Your Way program supports the growth and retention of women and gender-diverse individuals in community football leadership by helping current leaders build capability, confidence, and connection. The program also aims to equip participants with practical tools to positively impact their clubs and communities, delivering content specific to the groups identified challenges. Congratulations to Chelsea Hart-Grovedale FNC,Emily Hoare-Portarlington FNC,Lily Edwards-Belmont Lions Sports Club & Nicole Smith St Albans FNC who proudly represented our region in this program.
Designed to elevate your coaching skills and knowledge. Whether you're an experienced coach or just starting out, this forum is the perfect chance to hear from some of the best in the industry.
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Chemist Warehouse AFLW Community Ambassadors Program.
Each year, women and girls in the footy community are nominated and recognised for the outstanding efforts within our great game.
Ambassadors will receive a $1,000 grant, and a money can’t buy 2025 NAB AFLW Final experience.
Nominations close July 20
Officially opening on the 03/06/25 closing on the 25/08/25.
Clubs can now register to participate in the mission to eliminate deaths and serious injuries on our roads and share in the chance to earn up to $10k.
The Toyota Good for Footy Raffle is back for 2025! If a club has never engaged with the program, they can now register for free via the link below.
Clubs who have previously registered are automatically re-registered and can start fundraising Immediately.
Football
Senior Football
Selected Team Entry Reminder - Senior Men’s and Women’s Division 1 Football
A reminder to all clubs that selected teams for Senior Men’s and Senior Women’s Division 1 football must be entered into the PlayHQ database by 7:00pm each Thursday night.
Clubs are required to include:
- Playing positions for 18 starting players
- 4 interchange players
- Up to 3 emergencies
Accurate and timely team submissions help enhance coverage and visibility across our media partners and provide greater exposure for your players and club
Failure to comply with this competition rule will result in relevant sanction.
Junior Football
One Game Per Week – Per Age Group
Just a reminder that each player is only permitted to play one game per weekend in a particular age group, including Friday night matches. Even if your club has multiple teams in the same age group, players can still only play one game in that age group per round.
Finals Eligibility – Competitive Age Groups
Now is a good time to check player eligibility for finals. Players must have played a minimum number of games in a particular age group to qualify. Those who’ve played in higher grades/divisions may have additional requirements to be eligible for lower division finals. If there are any questions about eligibility, please reach out, and we can assist you.
Please note: Even if a player qualifies for multiple teams, they are only permitted to play in one finals match per weekend.
Team Sheets
Please ensure all team sheets are accurately completed and updated in PlayHQ. We’ve noticed discrepancies between what’s recorded on paper and what’s entered into the system. This is not only an insurance issue, but it can also impact player eligibility, particularly as we approach the finals. If any last-minute changes are made on game day, they must be updated in PlayHQ to ensure all information is accurate and compliant.
Permits and Transfers
Please note that the permit and transfer window has now closed, with the cut-off being June 30. No further player permits or transfers will be accepted for the remainder of the season.
Thank you for your continued efforts and support throughout the season. If you have any questions or require clarification on any of the above, feel free to get in touch.
Resource Links
Football Umpiring
Reminder
Jock Hillgrove will be taking some well-deserved leave from the 6th June - 7th July 2025.
If you are requiring assistance during this time, please contact Will Ross at
Netball
General Netball
Please ensure you’re monitoring your games played totals throughout the season. Clubs also bear responsibility to ensure players are managed within the bounds of the game, and are monitoring this information.
While AFL Barwon does check paperwork and make amendments as needed, we check over 600 pieces of paper per week, so we may miss a record.
If you require support in checking these records, please reach out.
Netball Victoria
For those that missed June’s monthly online education session, Session 1- Child Safety Recruitment Practices and Robust Screening is available to view.
You can view all of the previous recordings on Netball Victoria’s monthly online education sessions section on YouTube at any time.
The next session will run on Monday 7 July, covering the following topics:
| 6-6:30pm | Child Safety Standards |
| 6:30-7pm | Woolworths NetSetGo - Bring a friend initiative |
| 7-7:30pm | Facilities - Building for the future |
As school holidays approach, we’re encouraging your members to secure their spots in the July school holiday Train Like a Vixen clinics, running from 10 July- 18 July. Ideal for netballers aged 5–15.
These clinics are a great way to keep players active, engaged, and developing their skills during the break.
The 2025 Country Football and Netball Program (CFNP) is now open, and closes on 7 July 2025. Grants of up to $250,000 are available to deliver infrastructure projects that include the redevelopment and construction of courts, installation of sports lighting, and construction of new and redevelopment of existing pavilions, including gender‑neutral change rooms. If your club, association or league is interested in facility enhancements through this program you should reach out to your local Council representatives or the NV facilities team. Please note that all applications must be submitted via your local Council.
BFNL & GFNL Netball
A reminder to all teams that only players and bench officials are permitted on team benches. Please ensure you are abiding by these rules to ensure match day goes smoothly. We ask parents to please enable the coaches to coach their teams for the duration of the game.
Parents and spectators should also be reminded to stand back from the playing surface to ensure the safety of all involved. If you are asked by an official or mentor to step away from the court or bench, please do so without issue.
We have received some reports regarding the use of inappropriate language and instances of unsporting behaviour on the field. We kindly remind everyone that maintaining respectful conduct is essential to creating a safe and enjoyable environment for all players, officials, and spectators.
We encourage coaches, team managers, and club officials to actively support and reinforce these behavioural standards with their players. By working together, we can continue to uphold the values of respect, sportsmanship, and community that are central to our game.
Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to fostering a positive sporting culture.
Junior Netball
AFL Barwon are pleased to announce the appointment of Caitlyn Murphy to the role of Netball Coordinator. Caitlyn joins us full time after working with us as a competition coordinator across our midweek competition venues. With a background in Youth Work and Sports Management, she is passionate about creating inclusive spaces and driving opportunities for young people- particularly in the development of netball.
A reminder that AFL Barwon Junior Netball has season byes due to school holidays with no games to be played on Tuesday 8th July, Friday 11th July, Tuesday 15th July.
Enjoy the break and see you on Friday 18th July when we return.
A reminder to all teams that only players and bench officials are permitted on team benches. Please ensure you are abiding by these rules to ensure match day goes smoothly. We ask parents to please enable the coaches to coach their teams for the duration of the game.
Parents and spectators should also be reminded to stand back from the playing surface to ensure the safety of all involved. If you are asked by an official or mentor to step away from the court or bench, please do so without issue.
We have received some reports regarding the use of inappropriate language and instances of unsporting behaviour on the field. We kindly remind everyone that maintaining respectful conduct is essential to creating a safe and enjoyable environment for all players, officials, and spectators.
We encourage coaches, team managers, and club officials to actively support and reinforce these behavioural standards with their players. By working together, we can continue to uphold the values of respect, sportsmanship, and community that are central to our game.
Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to fostering a positive sporting culture.
Just a friendly reminder to please select team line-up on PlayHQ prior to 10am match day.
Due to the Geelong cats home game at GMHBA there will be no games played at Kardinia Park on August 8. The fixture for this will be published in due time with the night running similar to last time.
Congratulations to our Representative Development Teams who are participated in Grand Finals on Monday 30th June!
- 13&U Bellarine FNL vs 13&U Geelong FNL: Kardinia Park 7:00pm 24 (BFNL) def 12 (GFNL)
- 15&U Geelong FNL vs GCNA Turquoise: Kardinia Park 7:00pm 37 (GFNL) def 27 (GNNA Turquoise)
CDFNL Netball
Please ensure you’re monitoring your games played totals throughout the season. Clubs also bear responsibility to ensure players are managed within the bounds of the game, and are monitoring this information.
While AFL Barwon does check paperwork and make amendments as needed, we check over 600 pieces of paper per week, so we may miss a record.
If you require support in checking these records, please reach out.
Netball Umpiring
Umpire Coordinators were asked at the start of the season to send through their rosters prior to or after each round had concluded. Collecting this information is to assist in best supporting umpire coordinators, the umpires and the mentors when visiting clubs. It also contributes to decision making when clubs ask for an exemption for umpires to umpire grades above their level of accreditation.
Thank you to the few clubs that have been sending through their umpire rosters weekly.
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Anglesea |
Rounds: 1, 2, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11 |
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Barwon Heads |
All rounds received |
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Drysdale |
Round: 11 |
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Geelong Amateur |
All rounds received |
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Modewarre |
Rounds: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 |
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Newcomb/Surf Coast Suns |
Rounds: 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 |
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Ocean Grove |
All rounds received |
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Portarlington |
Rounds: 6, 7, 9, 10 |
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Queenscliff |
All rounds received |
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Torquay |
All rounds received |
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Bell Park |
Rounds: 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 |
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Colac |
All rounds received |
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Geelong West Giants |
Rounds: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9 |
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Grovedale |
All rounds received |
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Lara |
Rounds: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 |
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Leopold |
Rounds: 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 9, 10 |
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Newtown |
All rounds received |
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North Shore |
Round: 7, 8, 9, 10 |
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South Barwon |
Rounds: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 |
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St Albans |
All rounds received |
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St Josephs |
Rounds: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9, 10 |
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St Marys |
All rounds received |