School Sport Australia announces major changes to footy competitions
The pathway for young footballers to the AFL and AFLW competitions will undergo a significant change in 2026 with modified rules being brought in at one level.
AFL News
Don't miss out on the headlines from AFL News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
The representative structure for aspiring AFL and AFLW players has been changed at national level.
School Sport Australia has announced from 2026 its 15-years-and-under national championships, will be become to the 14-and-under titles.
The move has been made to align with the two-year gap between the under-16 and 18 championships run by the AFL.
“The decision reflects a collaborative effort between SSA and AFL to create a more balanced and accessible representative program,” SSA’s statement said.
As part of the changes, the 12-and-under titles will remain in place but with modified rules similar to those which have recently been introduced at community and school level across the country.
Among the new rules, teams will be allowed 15 players on the field instead of 18 and grounds will be shortened to 130m with temporary goals positioned 10m in at both ends.
“The collaboration and alignment with School Sport Australia to adjust the competition structure and playing rules has resulted in a more aligned and consistent pathway for students participating in the Championships,” AFL executive general manager of game development Rob Auld said.
SSA executive officer Phil Reeves said the changes came through feedback from member bodies and officials.
“As an educationally focused organisation, we believe it is important to maintain the 12 years-and-under championship to support young students in their development,” Reeves said.
SSA national sports adviser for Australian Rules Football Geoff Hayes welcomed the move.
“These changes reflect extensive discussions with the AFL and careful deliberations by the SSA board. Our goal is to provide students, regardless of their location, access to a school sporting representative program,” he said.
Both of this year’s titles are set to be held in Queensland later this year.
The 15s will take place at South Pine Sports Complex in Brisbane between July 26 and August 2 while the 12s compete between August 3 and 10.
Originally published as School Sport Australia announces major changes to footy competitions
Voss to be sacked? Buddy calls for big Blues change ‘ASAP’
Lance Franklin has saved Carlton and thinks the Blues need drastic change – and quickly. See what Buddy has said about the Blues’ looming call on Michael Voss.
Windhager fights fine for Daicos strike, Coleman contender in clear
The tribunal will hear Marcus Windhager’s case as he attempts to overturn his fine after an incident with Nick Daicos, while a gun goalkicker is set to avoid a ban despite leaving a player concussed.