The SANFL and WAFL are keen for the state game tradition to continue with the backing of clubs and players
The relevance of battles between the SANFL and WAFL has been discussed on the eve of the Perth game, but the two leagues are strong in their opinion that players still value its importance.
SANFL
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THE SANFL and WAFL have met in Perth to discuss the future of state battles.
The two-year agreement for each state to host a game will be completed on Sunday with the clash at Optus Stadium and the two states are keen to continue the concept.
The WAFL has even mentioned a possible approach to the VFL to have them return to state football.
The two leagues had talks on Friday with state football high on the agenda and whether there could be changes to the concept moving forward.
SANFL football operations manager Tom Hurley said state football was critical and a part of the fabric of the league and South Australian football.
He said the state games had the enthusiastic backing of the club and players.
“We think state games are extremely valuable and as long as we have the support of the clubs and players it is something we will certainly be passionate about,” Hurley said.
“The clubs see the value in the games and as an important tradition to continue. You only have to attend training and game day to understand how important it is to the players to represent the state and showcase their talents in the big AFL stadiums.”
WAFL executive manager of talent and football operations Scott Baker said state games had an important role on the league’s schedule and the clubs and players were vehemently behind the concept.
He claimed having the games at Adelaide Oval and Optus Stadium was significant and helped with their relevance showcasing the next crop of talent, particularly following the introduction of the mid-season draft.
“We talked about whether there is a variation of what we are doing now to try and bring Victoria back in at some stage,” Baker said.
“We had discussions with the VFL last year, but were keen to commit to the concept with SA and review it after this weekend and through the year.
“Under the right concept the VFL might be involved. SA and WA were keen on the concept and see value in it.
“We also understand playing each other each year, potentially it could lose a little relevance, we are not shying away from that. I’m not sure in terms of Victoria, but we would like to have that conversation at some stage.”
The SANFL, WAFL, VFL, Tasmania and NEAFL were involved in a rotation concept until 2016.
There was no state game in 2017, while the WAFL conquered the SANFL at Adelaide Oval last year. The WAFL has won its past two games against the SANFL.
THE 2019 TEAMS
SANFL
F: Menzel, J. Hayes, Hender
HF: Wilson, Beech, Barry
C: J. Noble, Stevens, Pearce
HB: Rose, Stephens, Curran
B: Allmond, Proud, Haines
R: Knoll, Tropiano, Snelling
INT: Petrenko, Hoskin, Sutcliffe, Foote, Smith, Ramsey, Battersby, Hill
WAFL
F: Gault, Sokol, Ugle
HF: Kitchin, Bell, Stewart
C: Schloithe, Deluca, Black
HB: Ramsay, Notte, Kennedy
B: Sinclair, Litherland, Rogers
R: Delahunty, Bolton, Horsley
INT: Bennell, Hamp, Nelson, Lockyer, Dragovich, Mitchell, Pearson, Mountford, Hampson
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