AFL Outer East 2021: Clubs consider changes to the season

AFL Outer East clubs are pondering several proposed changes to the season, including a new-look finals series, ahead of a return to play.

Nick Russo takes a kick for Cranbourne against Wandin last month. Picture: Valeriu Campan

More teams could get the chance to play finals in AFL Outer East this season if clubs agree to go to a top-six.

A finals restructure — with an extra finals spot up for grabs — is among several proposals being considered by clubs as the league looks to reboot its season after lockdown.

Currently, a top-five finals system exists in all three divisions.

“Yes, that’s one of the suggestions on the table,” AFL Outer East regional general manager Aaron Bailey said.

“Certainly there is the option there of going from a top five to a top six.

“There are a few reasons for that.

“A top six (finals) system can be done over three or four weeks, so if you had to drop a week off you can maintain your finals integrity.

“Whereas a top five is only four weeks.

“But also we think that (going to a top six) takes away some of the concerns around the fixture or loss of games.

“It just means people are playing for more positions. It is one of the few suggestions out there that are being considered.’’

Narre Warren and Olinda Ferny Creek players. Picture: Stuart Milligan

Bailey said the main aim was to get the local competition going again.

“We’re open to trying anything to make sure we can get everyone back and give as many people an opportunity at the back end of the year in terms of playing as much footy and netball as possible,’’ he said.

AFL Outer East has abandoned the rounds already lost to the lockdown over the past couple of weeks.

Clubs met with AFL Outer East officials last Wednesday and a number of proposed changes were thrown up.

“We’ve put together some proposals around what it would look like returning,’’ Bailey said.

“All the clubs are being consulted so they’ve got the weekend to come back to us and then the commission will meet Wednesday and then we will put in place any changes that we think will help as the year goes on.’’

The league hopes to resume play this coming weekend.