Big league backing for new U9 comp

THE McDonald’s Ballarat Football Netball League has officially launched its Under 9s footy competition for the upcoming season.

Partnering with AFL side the Western Bulldogs, the 14 round competition will be known as the Western Bulldogs Under 9’s.

Along with naming rights, the Sons of the Scray are also supporting the comp.

Ballarat FNL operations manager Shane Anwyl said the new league would provide pathways for the increasing volume of
kids playing footy and especially those looking to go beyond existing skills development programs.

“The league is experiencing tremendous growth in the lower age groups of junior football and the addition of an Under 9’s to compliment Auskick will further strengthen and develop boys and girls as they move in to the Ballarat Junior FNL competitions,” he said.

The Western Bulldogs Under 9s will be held each Friday night from 5 April and will run for 14 weeks through the season with clubs playing each other twice.

No games will be held over Easter, Queen’s Birthday of July school holidays.

The games will be played on four smaller ovals on the main grounds under lights in a family friendly atmosphere.

Western Bulldogs Under 9 reserves will play at 6pm, with seniors to play at 7pm.

In 2019, the Western Bulldogs Under 9s will incorporate all eight Ballarat based junior clubs.

All clubs are inviting potential players and volunteers to get involved.