Lara Football Netball Club has confirmed its senior and reserves men\u2019s football teams will enter recess for the 2026 season, following ongoing challenges in establishing a sustainable program.<\/p>\n
The decision was made after discussions involving AFL Barwon, AFL Victoria and the Lara FNC Executive, and a meeting with the Lara Sporting Club earlier this week. While the pause marks a significant moment for the club, other programs will continue.<\/p>\n
Lara\u2019s Geelong Football Netball League aligned netball teams will remain active in 2026, along with senior female football, junior football and junior netball competitions under AFL Barwon.<\/p>\n
AFL Barwon Chair Ashley West said the decision was not taken lightly.<\/p>\n
\u201cAFL Barwon appreciates the gravity of the decision made by the Lara Sporting Club this evening. It is an extremely unenviable position for any club, and we acknowledge the careful decision-making process, which considered the broader impacts on the league.\u201d<\/p>\n
Despite the senior men\u2019s recess, Lara FNC continues to be a strong presence at junior level. Participation in junior football has increased steadily over the past five years, with team numbers now ranking among the top 10 across the region.<\/p>\n
Under AFL Barwon By-Law 13.2, clubs are required to field senior and reserve football teams alongside all netball grades from A Grade downward. AFL Barwon has confirmed Lara FNC will be granted an exemption from this requirement for the 2026 season.<\/p>\n
Mr West said the organisation remained confident in the club\u2019s long-term future.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe remain optimistic that, through strong junior participation in both football and netball, along with recent consolidation in senior netball and senior female football, Lara can rebound strongly from the current senior men\u2019s football challenges.\u201d<\/p>\n
He said AFL Barwon would continue working closely with the club.<\/p>\n
\u201cLocal football and netball are stronger with a sustainable and competitive Lara.\u201d<\/p>\n
AFL Barwon will now prioritise competition adjustments ahead of the upcoming GFNL season, working collaboratively with clubs in the coming week to manage the impact of the change.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Lara Football Netball Club has confirmed its senior and reserves men\u2019s football teams will enter recess for the 2026 season, following ongoing challenges in establishing a sustainable program. The decision was made after discussions involving AFL Barwon, AFL Victoria and the Lara FNC Executive, and a meeting with the Lara Sporting Club earlier this week. […]<\/p>\n