Chris Febvre • February 4, 2021
Female Football League Returns for 2021
Female Football League Returns for 2021
The North East Border Female Football League (NEB FFL) and its member clubs are excited to be returning to the field in 2021.
Following a successful year in 2019, the season was cancelled for 2020 as the country navigated the COVID-19 pandemic. The year did present brief windows of opportunity for clubs to train and play practice games under State Government approved COVID-19 protocols, however the 2021 season will be the first time many players have competed in football since the 2019 season.
League Operations Manager, Matthew Elliott, said that after the challenges faced by community sport last year, it was great to see clubs preparing for the 2021 season.
“All of the clubs greatly missed playing football last year, so to see them start preseason training and welcome back their players is fantastic.
“Everyone is of course adjusting to life in the wake of the pandemic, although preparations for the season are well underway and we are looking forward to delivering a full season in 2021”.
The NEB FFL features competitions in three age groups, being U14’s, U17’s, and Open Women’s. The 2021 season will be the inaugural year for the U14 competition, with previous years consisting of an U16’s and Open Women’s format. With the introduction of the U14 competition, the league aims to provide greater opportunities for women and girls of all ages to play football in a safe and competitive environment.
In 2021, the league will feature eight clubs competing for the Premiership; Alpine Lions (based in Whorouly), Lavington Panthers, Murray Felines (based in Rutherglen), Thurgoona Bulldogs, Wangaratta Rovers, Wodonga Bulldogs, Wodonga Raiders and Yarrawonga Pigeons. The clubs boast several seasons competing in the league, however this year will mark the first time Wodonga Bulldogs have entered teams in the competition.
With clubs in the North East region commencing training as the new season approaches, Elliott encouraged any interested players to contact their local club and be involved.
“Our clubs are full of passionate and energetic people, who are committed to providing opportunities to women and girls of all ages and abilities to play football in a safe and welcoming environment.
“Whether you are an experienced player or completely new to football, each club is inclusive and coupled with their enthusiasm for growing the sport, everyone is welcome to enjoy playing football”.
Anybody interested in playing football is encouraged to contact their local club directly or contact Matthew Elliott at AFL North East Border on (02) 6056 1993 for more information.
The 2021 season is due to commence on Sunday 11th April.
Clubs
Alpine Lions: Rajanna Costenaro – 0429 857 876
Lavington Panthers: Scott Curphey – 0417 781 707
Murray Felines: Nadine Nicholson – 0433 782 646
Thurgoona Bulldogs: Chloe Beck – 0482 888 232
Wangaratta Rovers: Rick Marklew – 0409 430 749
Wodonga Bulldogs: Kathryn Dalton – 0418 699 853
Wodonga Raiders: Skye Burgess – 0411 572 741
Yarrawonga Pigeons: Sheree Spiteri – 0418 514 710
The AFL North East Border (AFLNEB) LaTrobe University Junior Carnival celebrated its 18th year in 2025, continuing its proud tradition of showcasing emerging talent from across the region. The carnival provides junior footballers with a valuable opportunity to represent their league against strong opposition from neighbouring competitions. This year saw significant changes to the carnivals structure, with the Tallangatta and District Football Netball League and Hume Football League withdrawing from the Junior Carnival this year with both leagues facing off in an Interleague Match later this season. As such in 2025, we held four full matches between the Albury Wodonga Junior Football League (AWJFL) and Wangaratta & District Junior Football League (WDJFL) across 4 age groups – U13’s, U14’s, U15’s and U16’s. Held once again at the picturesque Lavington Sportsground, the event made full use of both ovals. With the sun shining and perfect playing conditions, the stage was set for an outstanding day of football. Match Results & Highlights U13s – Oval 2, 10:00 AM A thrilling opener saw the WDJFL control much of the play early, led by Tom Sealy and Jack Hart, and holding a narrow lead into the final term. However, a resilient AWJFL side, inspired by Best on Ground Ryder Pearce (Wodonga Raiders JFC), surged late to claim victory. Final Score: AWJFL 7.9 (51) def WDJFL 5.8 (38) U15s – Oval 1, 10:00 AM The AWJFL made the most of a first-quarter breeze to take an early lead, and despite a determined fightback from the WDJFL, they held on for a hard-fought win. Will Packer (Albury JFC) was instrumental and awarded Best on Ground honours. Final Score: AWJFL 7.8 (50) def WDJFL 5.5 (35) U14s – Oval 2, Midday This closely contested match saw multiple lead changes in the second half. Archie Knobel and Harris Bruneau were instrumental for the WDJFL. With pressure mounting in the final minutes, the AWJFL edged ahead with a goal after the siren, sealing a memorable 8-point win. Tom Toepfer (Albury JFC) was pivotal and named Best on Ground. Final Score: AWJFL 6.7 (43) def WDJFL 5.5 (35) U16s – Oval 1, Midday Featuring some of the region’s top junior talent, this match showcased high-level football. WDJFL started strongly, but AWJFL steadily worked their way back and dominated the second half. Blake Morgan (Albury JFC) delivered a standout performance to earn Best on Ground. Final Score: AWJFL 12.14 (86) def WDJFL 7.4 (46) Overall it was a fantastic day of football, with all but the U16’s match up for grabs until the final 5 to 10 minutes keeping everyone in attendance highly engaged. Zac Hedin, AFLNEB Region Manager, shared his thanks and reflections on the day: "On behalf of AFLNEB, I’d like to thank everyone involved in the 2025 AFLNEB LaTrobe University Junior Carnival. A special thank you goes to all the volunteers – coaches, team managers, trainers, runners, and first aiders – who make this event possible each year." "It was fantastic to see all games played in such great spirit. The conduct of players, coaches, and spectators was exemplary, and a credit to all involved. We look forward to seeing how these young players continue to develop through the 2025 season, and we hope to welcome many of you back in 2026." A big thanks to our AFLNEB Partners, in particular LaTrobe University, Hume Bank, the Commercial Club, Loco Apparel and APCO.
A huge congratulations to ALL 7 clubs from the AFLNEB region who’ve scored funding through Round 2 of the AFL’s Telstra Footy Country Grants! Across the first two rounds, 9 local clubs have shared over $18,000 to support their incredible initiatives and projects! This is a massive win for our community, and we’re proud to have played a small part in making it happen. We can’t wait to keep the momentum going and support even more clubs in the remaining two rounds this year! If your club is looking to make an application in the coming rounds please reach out to AFLNEB Club Development Lead, Chandan Kulkarni - chandan.kulkarni@aflneb.com.au More info - Telstra Footy Country Grants
The ultimate footy fundraiser is back for the 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership Season and it’s your time to Raise Like A Legend! Toyota has been supporting grassroots clubs every step of the way since 2015. Last year, we helped raise $1,242,865 across 913 clubs. This year we want your footy club to be part of it. It’s free and easy, and Toyota provide the promotional tools so that anyone at your club can get involved, you’ll be smashing fundraising records in no time. For more info and to register your club, please follow the link here - Toyota Good For Footy Raffle
