Southern Mallee Suns, Mallee Storm to join River Murray Football League for 2023

Two merged country footy entities have been given a lifeline after the disbandment of their original league, with a local competition welcoming them aboard for next season.

SA footy’s two newest clubs have found a home for season 2023 after the disbanding of their competition.

The Southern Mallee Suns Football and Netball Club and the Mallee Districts Storm Football and Netball Club are set to play in the River Murray Football League next year after having their applications accepted this week.

The clubs were formed after the disbandment of the Mallee Football League this morning and are mergers of Lameroo and Pinnaroo, and Karoonda and Peake.

“The River Murray Football League Executive and its Member Club Presidents/Representatives held a duly convened meeting on Tuesday, November eight at the Tailem Bend Football Club in order to consider (and accept) two proposals received to enter the RMFL from season 2023 onwards,” league secretary Mary-Loy Griffiths said in a statement to fans and members.

Karoonda in action during season 2022. The club has merged with Peake to form the Mallee Districts Storm and will compete in the RMFL next year. Picture: Karoonda Football Club

“Following the official vote, the RMFL has advised SANFL of its endorsement for both clubs to join the competition from season 2023.

“The RMFL understands that SANFL Community Football Regulations require official approval from the SA Football Commission which will be actioned at a November 29 meeting.

“We wish to take this opportunity to congratulate both clubs on gaining official approval/endorsement to join the RMFL for season 2023 onwards and we look forward to welcoming and working with all new clubs.”

It is the culmination of months of work for the clubs, after the disbandment of the Mallee FL cast their futures into doubt.

The Southern Mallee Suns' new logo in the club's colours – orange, charcoal and white. Picture: Southern Mallee Football and Netball Club

The Mallee Districts Storm's logo for season 2023. Picture: Mallee Districts Football and Netball Club

A Southern Mallee Football and Netball Club spokesperson told The Messenger the club would now look to add to its playing troops and sub committee in preparation for the upcoming season.

“Our next steps include instating the remainder of the board, developing sub-committee structures, club policies, uniforms, club mascots and so on,” they said.

“Recruitment obviously plays a big role at this time of the year and we want to ensure we can retain great players and source any new interest.

“We want to demonstrate what great players the Southern Mallee has to offer and that we are a good addition to any league.”

The clubs will now await official SANFL/SA Football Commission approval by the end of this month.