AFL Barwon releases key dates for 2021 season

The Bellarine Football Netball League 2021 season will get under way on April 3 as AFL Barwon has released key dates for next year’s football and netball competitions.

The Geelong Football Netball League (GFNL) will begin its 2021 season two weeks later, on April 17.

Importantly, all three football/netball leagues around the region will have standalone grand final days, providing fans the opportunity to see all three showcase games. The BFNL grand final will be held on September 4, the GFNL on September 18 while the Geelong and District Football Netball League grand final will take place on September 11.

The full fixture will be released this week, but is subject to change.

Senior female, under-19 male and all junior football will commence on April 17.

AFL Barwon also released its ‘Play On’ plan, outlining a clear strategy as community football and netball returns after the disrupted and ultimately cancelled 2020 season.

The Play On plan’s key focus areas surround returning to play in a COVIDSafe manner, re-engage and sustain participation as well as supporting its affiliates, staff and relevant partners.
In the AFL Barwon’s Plan: Play On In 2021 document released on Monday, it states:

“AFL Barwon is here to support the passion of our stakeholders, through responsible governance and professional leadership, to deliver a thriving competition and sporting community.

“AFL Barwon’s Plan: Play On In 2021 aims to set a clear understanding of our priorities following the disruption to season 2020 due to COVID-19.”

The plan aligns with the AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria Strategic Plan and will be a precursor to the AFL Barwon 2022-2025 Strategic Plan, which is still being developed.