NewsBite

Full 2024 season guide and players to watch for the Adelaide Footy League

The 2024 Adelaide Footy League season kicks off this weekend. We’ve analysed how each club sits, made our predictions and picked the players to watch for all seven divisions.

Paul Puopolo takes Mark of the Year contender

The 2024 Adelaide Footy League season will finally kick-off this weekend as Adelaide’s top suburban clubs prepare to clash for silverware.

Countless sides have strengthened during what was an entertaining pre-season full of major player movements and the competition looks set to host one of its most tightly-contested years yet.

Ahead of this weekend’s action, we’ve analysed all seven divisions, made our predictions and picked the players to watch.

DIVISION ONE

2023 grand final: Prince Alfred OC 9.15 (69) d Glenunga 8.7 (55)

Keith Sims OAM Medallist: Abe Davis (Glenunga)

Leading goalkicker: Jayden Davis (Prince Alfred OC) – 59

Major ins: Declan Fahey (North Adelaide to Glenunga), Jesse White (North Adelaide to Broadview), Joseph Haines (South Adelaide to Port District), Lachlan Pascoe (Norwood to Golden Grove), Matthew Nunn (Norwood to Payneham Norwood Union), Matt Rose (South Adelaide to Port District), Scott Lycett (Port Adelaide to Port District), Stephen Tahana (Adelaide/Gaza to Broadview), Will Rivers (Padthaway to Brighton)

Major outs: Alex Haren (Glenunga, Interstate), Andrew Bradley (Prince Alfred OC to Kybybolite), Alex McKay (Tea Tree Gully, interstate), Beau Schwarze (Glenunga, interstate), Chris Curran (Prince Alfred OC to Glenelg), Jack Trengove (Prince Alfred OC to Kybybolite)

Clubs: Brighton, Broadview, Glenunga, Golden Grove, Payneham Norwood Union, Port District, Prince Alfred OC, Sacred Heart OC, St Peter’s OC, Tea Tree Gully

Division one of the Adelaide Footy League could be set for one of its most competitive seasons yet, with a number of ins and outs across the competition.

Port District will be the team on every AdFL fan’s watch list after recruiting former AFL premiership player Scott Lycett along with SANFL guns Matt Rose and Joey Haines ahead of season 2024.

2023 premier Prince Alfred OC will have a new look this year with Craig Pitt’s side losing a number of key players including star midfielders Andrew Bradley and Jack Trengove and standout defender Chris Curran, while Nathan Grima’s Glenunga will also have a different look after a number of departures.

PAOC has seen a number of player departures after its second premiership in three years. Picture: Ann Marie O'Connor
PAOC has seen a number of player departures after its second premiership in three years. Picture: Ann Marie O'Connor

Broadview has been active after just missing out on finals in its return to division one last year, recruiting Jesse White, Crows SANFL player Stephen Tahana, former River Murray goal machine Johnny Boras and Spencer Gulf star Steve Jackson.

Tea Tree Gully will continue to rely on young up and coming talent after the departure of Alex McKay, Chad Schoenmakers and Ryan Spittle, while St Peter’s OC will field a youthful side with added experience, as star halfback Nick McGill returns from Sydney.

Alex Cailotto, Clayton Symonds and Sacred Heart OC have retained multiple key players and should be solid yet again this season, while Brighton will be looking to improve after the return of Will Rivers.

Promoted clubs Golden Grove and Payneham Norwood Union both look to be ready-made for the division, with the Kookaburras fresh off of a second consecutive premiership and the Falcons adding Matthew Nunn to an already impressive list.

THREE BIG PREDICTIONS

Port goes all the way

The club will face big challenges from a number of sides this year including rising local power Golden Grove, but the additions of Scott Lycett, Matt Rose and Joey Haines could be just enough to get Port District over the line.

Having also retained plenty of division one premiership experience from 2022, Josh Ramsey’s side looks well-equipped for another big run.

Lycett leads goalkicking

It remains to be seen whether or not Scott Lycet can perform consistently after knee surgery last year but the star ruck/forward utility should be a major threat for the rest of division one.

The former West Coast and Port Adelaide gun will spend plenty of time up front for Port District and could be set to star in that role for Josh Ramsey’s side.

Glenn wins league medal

Josh Glenn made his triumphant return to footy for Golden Grove last season, booting 35 goals in 13 division two games and winning the club’s Best and Fairest.

A dominant midfielder and forward who boasts elite strength and athleticism, Glenn will be a key player for the Kookaburras again this year and should pole well in the medal count if his team challenges for a flag.

PREDICTED LADDER

1. Port District

2. Golden Grove

3. Glenunga

4. Broadview

5. Prince Alfred OC

6. Payneham Norwood Union

7. Sacred Heart OC

8. Tea Tree Gully

9. St Peter’s OC

10. Brighton

PLAYERS TO WATCH

JOSH GLENN

(Golden Grove)

Josh Glenn has starred for Golden Grove. Picture: Golden Grove Football Club
Josh Glenn has starred for Golden Grove. Picture: Golden Grove Football Club

Josh Glenn made his return to local footy last season with Golden Grove and was one of the most dominant players throughout the entire league.

A strong and athletic player who excels in the contest, can take big marks and kick bags of goals, Glenn will undoubtedly be one of the top players in division one this year.

MATTHEW NUNN

(Payneham Norwood Union)

Former Norwood star Matt Nunn has joined PNU for 2024. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe
Former Norwood star Matt Nunn has joined PNU for 2024. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

A premiership captain with Norwood, Nunn made the major decision to step away from SANFL footy at the end of last season and join Jeremy Cini’s PNU side in division one.

Nunn possesses a big tank and can dominate a game in a number of roles with his exceptional foot and hand skills and ability to find space.

SCOTT LYCETT

(Port District)

Former Port Adelaide star Scott Lycett is set to play a major role for Port District. Picture: Mark Brake
Former Port Adelaide star Scott Lycett is set to play a major role for Port District. Picture: Mark Brake

Arguably the biggest signing in local SA footy this season, ruck/forward utility Scott Lycett should instantly be one of Port District’s top players.

The former West Coast premiership player and Port Adelaide gun will be an important leader on and off the field for the club this year and should do major damage in the ruck and up front with his strength and skills.

DIVISION TWO

2023 grand final: Golden Grove 10.12 (73) d Payneham Norwood Union 2.5 (17)

FA Bloch Medallist: Jake Pitman (Golden Grove)

Leading goalkicker: Thomas McCormack (Rostrevor OC) – 54

Major ins: Hudson Eeles (United to Athelstone), Jesse Lonergan (Athelstone), Joey Brown (Kapunda to Salisbury North), Kaine Stevens (Ouyen to Goodwood), Luke Habel (Central District to Salisbury North)

Major outs: Finn Betterman (PHOS Camden to CMS Crows), Nathan Dunn (Edwardstown to Blackwood)

Clubs: Adelaide University, Athelstone, Edwardstown, Flinders Park, Goodwood, Modbury, Old Ignatians, PHOS Camden, Rostrevor OC, Salisbury North

Division two looks set for another entertaining season, with dominant sides Golden Grove and Payneham Norwood Union moving up a div and Goodwood and Old Ignatians dropping down.

The Saints, under new coach Ben Johnston, should be the early favourite for the premiership after retooling well throughout the pre-season and adding a number of names including former West Adelaide star Kaine Stevens.

A number of other sides have prepared well for the year ahead including Flinders Park, Athelstone, Salisbury North and Modbury.

New Goodwood Saints coach Ben Johnston (left) hopes to lead his club back to the top division. Picture: Goodwood Saints Football Club
New Goodwood Saints coach Ben Johnston (left) hopes to lead his club back to the top division. Picture: Goodwood Saints Football Club

Both the Reds and Hawks have kept their star players after earning promotion to division two, while Salisbury North and Athelstone have both recruited well, bringing in names like Jesse Lonergan, Hudson Eeles, Joey Brown and Luke Habel.

Edwardstown will play under Adam Moller this season, the new coach inheriting a list packed with star names including Josh Schiller, Aaron Anderson and Logan Hill.

Rostrevor OC will be led by Damian Boots again this season after a successful 2023 campaign which saw the club finish in the finals, the former Old Ignatians coach set to meet his old club as it aims to rebuild after a tough 2023 in division one.

Adelaide Uni will also be looking to improve after a tough 2023 season, the club finishing eighth and just avoiding relegation.

THREE BIG PREDICTIONS

Grigg takes out medal

Grigg had a fantastic season for Athelstone in 2023 after returning to the club from Lobethal and polled well in the medal count.

The superstar midfielder and dual Magarey Medallist should be one of the top players in div two yet again this year and will undoubtedly pull plenty of votes if Athelstone can finish in the finals.

Saints storm to flag

Goodwood is hell bent on making amends for its disappointing end to 2023 which saw the club drop from division one for the first time since 1991.

The addition of former SANFL star Kaine Stevens along with the arrival of new coach Ben Johnston should prove to be a significant boost for the Saints and they should be set for a major premiership bid.

Iggies drop again

Old Ignatians suffered a difficult 2023 season in division one, only achieving one win after an exodus of players in the pre-season.

While the club has had a much more positive off-season ahead of 2024, it may face a challenge to survive in what is a strong second division.

PREDICTED LADDER

1. Goodwood

2. Salisbury North

3. Edwardstown

4. Athelstone

5. Rostrevor OC

6. Flinders Park

7. PHOS Camden

8. Modbury

9. Adelaide University

10. Old Ignatians

PLAYERS TO WATCH

KAINE STEVENS

(Goodwood)

Kaine Stevens in action for West Adelaide. Picture: Dean Martin
Kaine Stevens in action for West Adelaide. Picture: Dean Martin

Returning to South Australia after a one-year stint with Ouyen United in Victoria last season, former West Adelaide star Stevens will be one of Goodwood’s most important players.

A hardworking and tough midfielder who has no problem moving up the ground to hit the scoreboard, the Saints will be looking to Stevens to provide the boost they need to move back up to division one.

LOGAN HILL

(Edwardstown)

Logan Hill ahead of his 200th game for West Adelaide. Picture: Brenton Edwards
Logan Hill ahead of his 200th game for West Adelaide. Picture: Brenton Edwards

Hill experienced an inconsistent 2023 season at Edwardstown after retiring from SANFL level but should be a top performer this year if he can stay fit.

A winner of a premiership and two club best and fairest awards at West Adelaide, Hill can take a game over from the backline or in the middle with strong contest work and efficient distribution.

NIC SCHWARZ

(Flinders Park)

Nic Schwarz celebrates a goal for South Adelaide. Picture: Sarah Reed
Nic Schwarz celebrates a goal for South Adelaide. Picture: Sarah Reed

Schwarz has been a standout midfielder since joining brothers James and Tom and Flinders Park, taking out the GS Heard Medal in division three last season.

As clean as they come in the contest, the former South Adelaide star racks up possessions for his side and sets teammates up with ease.

DIVISION THREE

2023 grand final: Flinders Park 9.11 (65) d Modbury 8.6 (54)

GS Heard Medallist: Nic Schwarz (Flinders Park)

Leading goalkicker: Liam Verity (Modbury) – 86

Major ins: Chris Hall (Adelaide to Henley), Hugh Haysman (Adelaide to Unley), Kane Sherlock (West Adelaide to Henley), Matthew Broadbent (South Adelaide to Henley)

Major outs: Mark Evans (Pembroke OS, retired), Machok Garang (Hope Valley to Warrack Eagles)

Clubs: CBC OC, Henley, Hope Valley, Lockleys, North Haven, Pembroke OS, SMOSH West Lakes, Scotch OC, Seaton Ramblers, Unley Mercedes Jets

Henley heads into the 2024 division three season as clear premiership favourite, recruiting former AFL player Matt Broadbent, SANFL gun Chris Hall and up and coming young star Kane Sherlock after dropping from div two.

North Haven has also made changes after dropping down, signing new coach Joey Hay to lead the side this year, while Henley, Pembroke and Seaton will also welcome new coaches Daimon Head, Charles Canny and Darren Mead.

Former Crows star Scott Thompson will attempt to lead Unleyto promotion after falling just short in 2023. Picture: Tom Huntley
Former Crows star Scott Thompson will attempt to lead Unleyto promotion after falling just short in 2023. Picture: Tom Huntley

The Kings will be without superstar Mark Evans who made the decision to retire at the end of last season and may drop off from the finals frame as a result, while new teams CBC OC and Lockleys – who are led by former AFL player Ben Haren – will be hoping to surprise.

Hope Valley and Scott Thompson’s Unley should both be around the mark again this season after solid 2023 campaigns, the Demons winning a final behind the play of Paul Puopolo and Daniel Nobes, and the Jets just missing out on promotion.

Scotch OC could also be a surprise packet in 2024 after missing finals by just a point last season, with star players Max Renfrey, Sam Hargreaves and Hamish Winter-Irving all returning.

SMOSH West Lakes should remain competitive throughout the season but may struggle to move up from the bottom half of the ladder.

THREE BIG PREDICTIONS

Henley claims premiership plus medal

The Sharks had to go big in player recruitment after being relegated last season and they now sit as premiership favourites as a result.

Star midfield/defence utility Matt Broadbent should also dominate the competition and will be a big chance of winning the GS Heard Medal.

Haren reaches tonne

Former Sydney and South Adelaide key position player Ben Haren has dominated as a forward since joining Lockleys, booting over 100 goals in 2022 and reaching 70 last season.

If the reliable big man can stay fit this season it would come as no surprise to see him go close to the 100-mark.

Scotch makes finals

Scotch OC was agonisingly close to a finals appearance last season but will be a strong chance in 2024 after retaining a number of key players.

Continuity and stability has been important for the club after a number of coaching changes in 2022 and it has seen improvement as a result.

PREDICTED LADDER

1. Henley

2. Unley Mercedes Jets

3. Hope Valley

4. Lockleys

5. Scotch OC

6. Pembroke OS

7. North Haven

8. Seaton Ramblers

9. CBC OC

10. SMOSH West Lakes

PLAYERS TO WATCH

MATT BROADBENT

(Henley)

Matthew Broadbent is set to provide a huge boost for Henley. Picture: Sarah Reed
Matthew Broadbent is set to provide a huge boost for Henley. Picture: Sarah Reed

One of the Adelaide Footy League’s biggest signings for 2024, Broadbent should hit the ground running for Henley this season.

A smart and skilled player who can play at the back, up front or in the middle, the former Port Adelaide and South Adelaide gun will be must-watch in division three.

MITCH DUVAL

(Unley)

Former Woodville-West Torrens gun Mitch Duval. Picture: Mark Brake
Former Woodville-West Torrens gun Mitch Duval. Picture: Mark Brake

Arguably the best defender in division three last season, Duval will be a key player for Unley again in 2024.

The former WWTFC man can play a lockdown role on any forward and is also one of the best distributors in the division.

PAUL PUOPOLO

(Hope Valley)

Paul Puopolo has been a star for Hope Valley. Picture: Craig Golding
Paul Puopolo has been a star for Hope Valley. Picture: Craig Golding

Puopolo returned to his junior club last season and played an important part in its success, slotting in up front and also proving to be a damaging player on the ball.

The triple AFL premiership player can kick brilliant goals and take huge grabs and should be a key to Hope Valley’s play again this year.

DIVISION FOUR

2023 grand final: CBC OC 14.17 (101) d Lockleys 8.14 (62)

JW Schulz Medallist: Sean Kuerschner (Walkerville)

Leading goalkicker: Ben Haren (Lockleys) – 70

Major ins: Brad Beswick (Loxton North to Walkerville), Jarryd Fisher (Gawler Central to Hectorville), Lachlan Varricchio (CMS Crows to Hectorville), Mason Neagle (Hectorville), Nick Hyland (Payneham Norwood Union to Hectorville), Todd Lewis (West Gambier to Kenilworth), Viv Davey (Pooraka to Morphettville Park)

Major outs: Frank Timpano (Pooraka to Uraidla Districts), Matt Rankine (Pooraka to Kapunda), Stephen Tahana (Gaza to Broadview)

Clubs: Gaza, Gepps Cross, Hectorville, Kenilworth, Kilburn, Morphettville Park, Plympton, Pooraka, Walkerville, Westminster OS

Division four looks set to be one of the most open competitions in the Adelaide Footy League this season, with a number of clubs strengthening or losing key players.

Pooraka has seen a number of leavers including star players Frank Timpano and Matt Rankine after its upset collapse in 2023 finals and will be led by new coach Scott Sandercock, while Gaza has also experienced an exodus after a challenging off-season.

Hectorville heads into 2024 well-equipped after losing to Plympton in its final last year, recruiting a number of names including former SANFL player Mason Neagle and division one PNU player Nick Hyland.

Morphettville Park, Kenilworth, Kenilworth, Plympton and Walkerville will all be hoping continuity pays dividends this year after retaining key players and filling holes where needed.

Kilburn, which has retained star players Corey Solly, Brayden Lauder and Scott Galbraith, could be set for another solid year after claiming the division five flag last season in an upset over Gepps Cross, while the Rams should also be a strong chance to bounce back in 2024 behind strong production of former AFL players Dom Barry and Robbie Young as well as div five medallist Daniel Mason.

Westminster Old Scholars could also see improvement this season, with Tom Harms and James Craig both returning to the club and 2023 coach Zeb Kenny signing for another year.

THREE BIG PREDICTIONS

Pooraka in relegation battle

Pooraka produced a sensational minor round in 2023 to finish top of the ladder before crashing out of finals and experiencing an exodus of players ahead of 2024.

The Bulls will play under new coach Scott Sandercock but the challenge of rebuilding the team and staying in the division may be too much this year.

Hounds win upset flag

Hectorville crashed out of finals in 2023 but has recruited well ahead of this season and with a number of star players including gun target forward Jak Goudman-Glasson returning, the Hounds could be a chance to go all the way.

Dom dominates to win medal honours

Former Melbourne and Norwood excitement machine Dom Barry had a spectacular division five season in 2023 and should be just as good as he goes around with the Rams again this year.

A dominant midfielder and forward, Barry should pull plenty of votes for the JW Schulz Medal.

PREDICTED LADDER

1. Plympton

2. Hectorville

3. Gepps Cross

4. Kenilworth

5. Morphettville Park

6. Walkerville

7. Kilburn

8. Westminster OS

9. Pooraka

10. Gaza

PLAYERS TO WATCH

ALEX BARNS

(Morphettville Park)

Morphettville Park utility Alex Barns could be set for a big year. Picture: Tim Miller
Morphettville Park utility Alex Barns could be set for a big year. Picture: Tim Miller

A key recruit for the club two years ago, Alex Barns has struggled with injury since his arrival at Morphettville Park but remains one of the Adelaide Footy League’s top big men when fit.

The Roos will look to the former North Adelaide premiership player to produce up front and in the ruck throughout the season.

DOM BARRY

(Gepps Cross)

Gepps Cross star Dom Barry during his time with Norwood. Picture: Dean Martin
Gepps Cross star Dom Barry during his time with Norwood. Picture: Dean Martin

One of the competition’s most exciting players, Barry’s pace, skill and efficiency make him Gepps Cross’ most dangerous asset.

Capable of playing a number of positions through the midfield or up front, Barry should dominate a number of games this season.

CURTLY HAMPTON

(Plympton)

Former Crow Curtly Hampton. Picture: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images
Former Crow Curtly Hampton. Picture: Quinn Rooney/Getty Images

Hampton enters his second season with Plympton and should go up a gear after another pre-season with the club.

Expect the former Gold Coast and Adelaide AFL player to fill roles in the midfield and up front as the Bulldogs aim for promotion from division four.

DIVISION FIVE

2023 grand final: Kilburn 17.10 (112) d Gepps Cross 15.4 (94)

JB Dicker Medallist: Daniel Mason (Gepps Cross)

Leading goalkicker: Corey Solly (Kilburn) – 82

Major ins: Darcy Boyanton (Padthaway to Pulteney), Dale Finnie (River Murray FL to Portland), Jesse Tomlinson (Edwardstown to Pulteney), Mervyn Kartinyeri (Portland)

Major outs: Joe Couzner (Mitcham to Kenilworth), Reece Johnston (West Croydon to Ingle Farm)

Clubs: Blackfriars OS, Colonel Light Gardens, Greenacres, Marion, Mitcham, Portland, Pulteney, Trinity OS, West Croydon, Woodville South

Portland has been active in the player market throughout the pre-season after another disappointing year in 2023, retaining Terry Milera and Jake Neade as well as adding versatile gun Dale Finnie and local SA footy legend Mervyn Kartinyeri.

Both Marion and Greenacres have retained most of their lists after clashing in the division six grand final last season, while Colonel Light Gardens, led by Stirling Phipps-Parsons, and Trinity OS, led by Cam Matters, should also be strong after solid pre-seasons.

Pulteney should be a major improver and a side to keep an eye on after adding star Padthaway onballer Darcy Boyanton and former Edwardstown A Grader Jesse Tomlinson, while Mitcham also looks set for a big year, retaining its list after being relegated from division four.

Blackfriars OS have welcomed new coach Mike Cini after nearly suffering relegation last season, Woodville South will head into the season relatively unchanged and West Croydon will attempt to cover for the loss of Reece Johnston as it aims to make finals again.

THREE BIG PREDICTIONS

Milera’s medal in 2024

Portland suffered a disappointing 2023 season in division four but an active spell in player recruitment should see the side improve on its previous campaign.

Dazzling midfield/forward utility Terry Milera should be one of the standouts of the competition yet again in season 2024 and if his club can get a few wins on the board he should poll well in medal voting.

Mitcham makes grand final

The Hawks have retained most of their list after a surprise relegation down to division five and should come out all guns blazing under new coach Luke Ivens this year.

If players like Max Smyth, Dylan Matteucci and Lucas Spiniello can fire, Mitcham should get its mojo back in division five.

Lions win the flag

Colonel Light Gardens fell just short of a grand final appearance last season, falling to eventual premier Kilburn 148-117 in the preliminary final.

The Lions have retained a number of big guns for 2024 including Stirling Phipps-Parsons and if they can shore up the defence they will go close to winning the 2024 premiership.

PREDICTED LADDER

1. Colonel Light Gardens

2. Mitcham

3. Pulteney

4. Greenacres

5. Trinity OS

6. Marion

7. West Croydon

8. Portland

9. Blackfriars OS

10. Woodville South

PLAYERS TO WATCH

DARCY BOYANTON

(Pulteney)

Former Brighton midfielder Darcy Boyanton will return to the AdFL for Pulteney. Picture: Tom Huntley
Former Brighton midfielder Darcy Boyanton will return to the AdFL for Pulteney. Picture: Tom Huntley

A versatile and hardworking player with Padthaway last season, Boyanton was a key signing for Pulteney.

Should fill a number of roles for his new club.

STIRLING PHIPPS-PARSONS

(Colonel Light Gardens)

Starred for Colonel Light Gardens through the middle last season to win the club’s best and fairest.

Will be one to watch again this year as the Lions aim for premiership success.

TERRY MILERA

(Portland)

Former SANFL gun Terry Milera is set to star for Portland again this season. Picture: Dean Martin
Former SANFL gun Terry Milera is set to star for Portland again this season. Picture: Dean Martin

One of the Adelaide Footy League’s most skilled players, Milera can perform up front or through the midfield.

Was one of division four’s top players last season and will undoubtedly be a standout in division five.

DIVISION SIX

2023 grand final: Greenacres 8.7 (55) d Marion 5.8 (38)

AG Bert Medallist: Mitch Slater (Salisbury)

Leading goalkicker: Patrick O’Dea (Marion) – 73

Major ins: Ari Rigney (West Croydon to Ingle Farm), Jhye McConnell (South Clare to Elizabeth), Peter Pudney (St Paul’s OS)

Major outs: Mitch Slater (Salisbury to Golden Grove)

Clubs: Adelaide Lutheran, Central United, Eastern Park, Elizabeth, Fitzroy, Houghton Districts, Ingle Farm, Rosewater, Salisbury, St Paul’s OS

Ingle Farm will begin the 2024 as heavy favourite after storming to the division seven flag last season, the Bulldogs holding on to Terrel and Brandon Rigney after brilliant 2023 seasons from both.

Salisbury has lost superstar and reigning AG Bert Medallist Mitch Slater to Golden Grove for season 2024 but should remain as one of the favourites for a division six grand final appearance after keeping a number of important players including gun forward Josh Mann and onballer Jackson Thompson, while Houghton Districts and Eastern Park also boast strong lists.

THREE BIG PREDICTIONS

Bulldogs go back-to-back

Ingle Farm was completely dominant in division seven and should be more than capable of mounting a premiership challenge in division six.

The Dogs boast one of the best lists in the division and should be too hard for most opposition to stop.

Terrel wins league medal

Terrel Rigney was as important to his team as anyone in division seven last season but could not emerge victorious on medal night.

Expect the midfield/forward utility to produce another strong year and catch the eye of umpires as his side fights for a back-to-back flag.

Magpies earn promotion

Salisbury has undergone a major rebuild after almost folding in 2022 and has gradually built one of the strongest lists in the division.

The Magpies should be competitive again this season despite losing star player Mitch Slater, with names like Josh Mann and Jackson Thompson returning for another big year.

If they can secure a home final again this season, expect them to go far.

PREDICTED LADDER

1. Ingle Farm

2. Salisbury

3. Eastern Park

4. Fitzroy

5. St Paul’s OS

6. Houghton Districts

7. Central United

8. Adelaide Lutheran

9. Elizabeth

10. Rosewater

PLAYERS TO WATCH

TERREL RIGNEY

(Ingle Farm)

Former Ardrossan player Terrel Rigney (right) was dominant for Ingle Farm in 2023. Picture: Ardrossan Football Club
Former Ardrossan player Terrel Rigney (right) was dominant for Ingle Farm in 2023. Picture: Ardrossan Football Club

Rigney booted 68 goals as a midfield/forward player in division seven last season.

Will be a focal point for the Bulldogs yet again this year and should keep all defences on their toes.

PETER DRIEDRICHSEN

(Eastern Park)

Driedrichsen was Eastern Park’s top performer in division five throughout 2023 and should dominate on the ball again this season.

A skilled player with the ability to win the footy and create for teammates.

DIVISION SEVEN

2023 grand final: Ingle Farm 21.18 (144) d Houghton Districts 7.16 (58)

RA Stennett Medallist: Harrison Kaesler (OSB Lonsdale)

Leading goalkicker: Daniel Weetra (Para Hills) – 122

Major ins: Adam Long (Brahma Lodge), Ashley Wieland (Tea Tree Gully to Para Hills)

Major outs: Caleb Dean (OSB Lonsdale to Ironbank Cherry Gardens), Darcy Blight (Flinders University to Aldinga)

Clubs: Brahma Lodge, Flinders University, Hackham, Mawson Lakes, Mitchell Park, OSB Lonsdale, Para Hills, Smithfield

Para Hills looks well-poised for another strong finals run this season after retaining a strong division seven list which includes star goalkicker Daniel Weetra and returning utility Ashley Wieland.

Smithfield and Brahma Lodge may be able to challenge the club for the flag if they stay fit, while OSB Lonsdale and excitement machine forward Trevor Rigney should also pose a threat.

THREE BIG PREDICTIONS

Reds go big to win premiership

Para Hills is fresh off of a top two finish in the division last season and will have gained valuable experience from what was ultimately a disappointing finals performance.

The Big Reds will be spearheaded by Daniel Weetra up front again after his fantastic 122-goal season.

Weetra reaches tonne again

An athletic and skilled forward who boots goals for fun, Weetra is set for another big year with Para Hills.

Should get plenty of opportunities in front of the big sticks again in season 2024 as the focal point of the forwardline.

Varcoe wins medal honours

Adam Varcoe was brilliant upon Smithfield’s return to the competition last season, captaining the club from the midfield and being named among his side’s best in 11 of 15 games.

A ball magnet who wins plenty of contested footy, Varcoe should poll well in the division seven medal count.

PREDICTED LADDER

1. Para Hills

2. Brahma Lodge

3. OSB Lonsdale

4. Flinders University

5. Mitchell Park

6. Smithfield

7. Mawson Lakes

8. Hackham

PLAYERS TO WATCH

ADAM VARCOE

(Smithfield)

Former Central District player Adam Varcoe. Picture: File
Former Central District player Adam Varcoe. Picture: File

A longtime dominant midfielder in local SA footy, the former Central District player has been a star during his time with Smithfield.

DANIEL WEETRA

(Para Hills)

Daniel Weetra at the Para Hills Football Club. Picture: Ben Clark
Daniel Weetra at the Para Hills Football Club. Picture: Ben Clark

Talented goalkicker with a huge leap and the ability to slot goals from anywhere, Weetra is must-watch in division seven.

TREVOR RIGNEY

(OSB Lonsdale)

OSB Lonsdale's Trevor Rigney is congratulated by all for kicking 100 goals in 2018. Picture: Dean Martin
OSB Lonsdale's Trevor Rigney is congratulated by all for kicking 100 goals in 2018. Picture: Dean Martin

One of the greatest players in local SA footy history, Rigney has been known for producing acrobatic grabs up front and kicking brilliant goals.

Original URL: https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/sport/afl/local-footy-sa/full-2024-season-guide-and-players-to-watch-for-the-adelaide-footy-league/news-story/7b47cce37f950c31c59638d73dbf2d26