AFL Barwon is proud to announce that the Best on Ground medal for the Under 18 Division 1 Male Football Grand Final will be named in honour of John Bligh OAM — a legendary figure in Geelong’s junior football landscape whose remarkable contribution to the game has spanned more than 35 years.

John Bligh’s coaching journey began in 1965 and continued through to 2001, spending time at St Peter’s, North Shore, and Drysdale Football Clubs. Over that period, he missed just three seasons which is a testament to his enduring commitment and passion for developing young athletes. His coaching record is unparalleled in the region and unlikely to ever be repeated.

His legacy is defined by far more than results on the scoreboard. A dedicated volunteer throughout his life, John Bligh has helped shape thousands of junior footballers not just into better athletes, but into respected, disciplined, and community-minded individuals. He instilled values of hard work, perseverance, and integrity lessons that have stayed with many long after their playing days ended.

His impact off the field is just as extraordinary. John personally raised funds to ensure that every player had the opportunity to participate, regardless of financial circumstances. From covering equipment costs to funding end-of-season trips, John went above and beyond to remove barriers to inclusion, often out of his own pocket. He even chaperoned entire teams of young men on trips to places like Warrnambool and Echuca an experience remembered fondly by many.

John’s influence was widely recognised by those around him. He was awarded numerous “Best Clubman” accolades and is a Life Member and Legend of North Shore Football Club one of only seven to receive the club’s highest honour. In 2012, he was presented with a unique 40+ Years of Service Award by Football Geelong (now AFL Barwon) a distinction awarded to no one else.

John also represented the region with distinction, coaching the Geelong Under 18 representative team on multiple occasions. His reputation as the area’s most respected junior coach was built not just on his football knowledge, but on the way, he inspired young people to become responsible, respectful adults. John Bligh has quietly and selflessly helped shape the lives of countless young people across generations and his legacy will continue through this newly named Grand Final honour.

AFL Barwon is proud to recognise and celebrate the incredible contribution of John Bligh by naming the Under 18 Division 1 Male Football Grand Final Best on Ground Medal in his honour.

AFL Victoria is calling on grassroots football and netball clubs to promote road safety in their communities for a share of $700,000 thanks to the Transport Accident Commission’s (TAC) Club Rewards Program.

This year’s program aims to empower clubs to develop a culture where all players and members consider road safety before getting behind the wheel.

The Wellman family from Lucknow FNC attended today’s launch, after tragically losing their brother and son Koby in a road accident in 2022.

Now in its sixth year, the TAC Club Rewards Program allows AFL Victoria-affiliated football and netball clubs to apply for rewards of up to $10,000 to spend on club initiatives like club transport, new equipment and uniforms or facility upgrades. 

A further $100,000 has been added to this year’s funding pool to support more clubs in spreading the message.

More than 230 clubs earned a share of last year’s pool, with many motivated to take part after being affected by road tragedy.

As part of this year’s program, clubs will be asked to start conversations and be part of the campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of speeding, with the tagline – “Be the difference”. 

Gippsland’s Lucknow Football Netball Club and Barwon’s Western Eagles Football Netball Club were last year’s top recipients, and were rewarded for their impressive social media campaigns and road safety themed initiatives like ‘Deso Discounts’ and peer-to-peer videos.

Today’s launch in Gippsland comes as 133 people have lost their lives on Victorian roads, with more than 60 per cent of deaths happening on the same regional roads that footballers and netballers travel on for games every week.

More information on the TAC Club Rewards Program can be found at play.afl/victoria/tacclubrewards 

AFL Barwon is proud to announce a new three-year partnership with Town & Country Pizza, naming the beloved local business the Official Pizza and Pasta Partner of AFL Barwon for the next three years.

As part of the partnership, AFL Barwon clubs and members will enjoy exclusive specials and promotions at participating Town & Country Pizza stores throughout the season, bringing even more value to being part of the local football and netball community.

This exciting partnership will also see Town & Country Pizza secure naming rights to the Geelong FNL and Bellarine FNL Netball C Grade Competitions, and the Division 5 Mixed Under 14 Football Competition.

AFL Barwon Regional General Manager Lisa Patterson expressed her gratitude for the partnership.

“We’re incredibly thankful to Town & Country Pizza for their support of community football and netball. Their investment will have a direct impact on the development and enjoyment of hundreds of players across our region. To have a trusted local business like Town & Country Pizza backing our competitions and offering added value to our members is something we’re truly excited about.”

With locations spread across the region, Town & Country Pizza has been serving quality, fresh pizza and pasta for over 30 years. Renowned for their generous toppings, family-friendly service and community-minded ethos, they’re a trusted part of many local family’s weekly routine, including post-game meals and club functions.

Joe Rossi from Town & Country Pizza said they were proud to support local community sport.

“At Town & Country, taking care of people is at the heart of everything we do. It’s how we’ve built our business, and it’s why this partnership with AFL Barwon means a lot to us. Local sport brings families, friends, and communities together, and we’re proud to support an organisation that shares our commitment to taking care of people both on and off the field.”

The 2025 season will mark the beginning of this new partnership, with more details to be released soon on how clubs can access Town & Country Pizza specials and offers.

For more on Town & Country Pizza, go to https://www.townandcountrypizza.com.au

AFL Barwon announces that Head of Football, Michael Limb, will conclude his tenure at the end of the 2025 season, bringing to a close an extraordinary 23-year contribution to football in the region.

Michael began his journey with the organisation under Football Geelong and has since played a pivotal role in shaping the game locally through his time as Junior Football Manager, Senior Football Manager, Head of Operations, and most recently, Head of Football at AFL Barwon.

Across more than two decades, Michael’s contribution to the growth and governance of community football in the Barwon region has been immense. His guidance and football intellect have underpinned a period of substantial development, ensuring clubs and competitions have continued to thrive.

Michael has been a guiding figure for clubs, players, coaches, and volunteers across all levels of community football. His deep understanding of the game and its governance needs, coupled with his ability to influence, has supported the region through significant growth, challenges, and transformation.

From managing competitions and player registrations, to overseeing disciplinary matters and implementing governance reforms, Michael’s fingerprints are on nearly every operational aspect of the game in the Barwon region. His work behind the scenes has ensured that thousands of participants have had the opportunity to enjoy safe, well-run, and inclusive competitions year after year.

Michael’s knowledge and experience have been integral to many aspects of the game’s operations, particularly in overseeing the Match Review Panel, Tribunal processes, Player Points System and Allowable Player Payments. His commitment to fairness, integrity, and supporting clubs has helped create a robust football framework that will continue to benefit the region long after his departure.

AFL Barwon Region General Manager, Lisa Patterson, paid tribute to Michael's long-standing service.

“Michael has been a cornerstone of football administration in our region for more than 20 years,” Patterson said. “His wealth of knowledge, calm and considered approach, and genuine care for our clubs and people have been invaluable. He has worked with humility, and his behind-the-scenes efforts have underpinned the integrity of our competitions. While we are sad to see him go, we are incredibly grateful for the legacy he leaves behind.”

Reflecting on his time with the organisation, Michael said:

 “Having started in 2003 managing the Junior Football Program three days a week, I had no idea that 23 years later I would still be in the organisation. This journey has been extremely rewarding, to be a part of the incredible growth of football and netball in our region. Clearly it is a work environment that I enjoy, having remained for so long. I feel blessed to have met so many amazing and selfless people throughout my tenure."

"Whilst we have not always agreed or shared the same opinions, we all have a common desire to provide the best possible outcomes for our participants and stakeholders. I will truly value the friendships I have made and have the utmost respect for the individual contributions made by so many wonderful volunteers. Thank you all for your support, I look forward to sharing a beer and a laugh somewhere at the local footy in the years to come.”

AFL Barwon extends its thanks to Michael for his extraordinary contribution and wishes him and his partner Kellie all the very best as they begin the next chapter beyond football at seasons end.