Calling all clubs: Expansion on way for MPFNL

Mornington Peninsula Football Netball League has taken its biggest step yet towards a third division, seeking expressions of interest from clubs in Melbourne’s southeast.

The MPFNL could soon expand to a third division. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Expansion is on the horizon for the Mornington Peninsula Football Netball League, with a third division possible in 2024.

The MPFNL board on Wednesday called for expressions of interest from clubs interested at participating in the MPFNL “commencing the 2024 season’’

“This continues the process commenced pre Covid,’’ MPFNL board chair Graham Sherry said in a statement.

“The League considers expansion to a third division as an integral step in the long-term sustainability of the competition which currently encompasses the four local government areas of Mornington Peninsula Shire, Frankston City Council, City of Casey and City of Kingston.’’

Currently, 22 clubs compete in a two-division structure in the MPFNL.

Outer East league’s Premier division reigning premiers Narre Warren has expressed interest in joining the Mornington Peninsula league in recent years, while Southern league clubs Carrum Patterson Lakes, Frankston Dolphins and Chelsea Heights are based near MPFNL clubs.

In 2018, Cranbourne’s application to join the MPNFL was unsuccessful. The Eagles tried again years later but again were knocked back.

Two years ago, five clubs expressed interest in joining the Mornington Peninsula league — Cranbourne, Narre Warren, Beaconsfield, Doveton and Frankston Dolphins.

The MPFNL board will set up a FAQ section within the AFL South East website, which can allow questions to be raised and answers shared with the broader football community.

Applications close on July 21.

They will then be presented to the club presidents for final assessment and decision on entry.