EDFL 2018: CEO Craig Armstead discusses potential AFL Victoria Community Championships return
THE Essendon District Football League has not ruled out a return to the AFL Victoria Community Championships in 2019 after withdrawing this year.
Local Footy
Don't miss out on the headlines from Local Footy. Followed categories will be added to My News.
THE Essendon District Football League has not ruled out a return to the AFL Victoria Community Championships in 2019 after withdrawing this year.
The league made the decision not to compete in the interleague competition this season late last year, opting to direct its funds elsewhere.
The EDFL was ranked fifth in the state when it pulled out.
“It’s not off the agenda, but it would have to work for a whole range of reasons for us to come back in,” EDFL chief executive Craig Armstead said.
“As we get towards the end of this year, we’ll discuss it and review it and talk to AFL Vic and determine what we think for next year.
“I know AFL Vic is doing a review this year and (an) under-23 (competition) is just one of those considerations they’re looking at. We’ll see what they come up with and what their thoughts are for 2019 and then we’ll make a decision later in the year around it.”
Asked if the EDFL would take part in the championships next year, Armstead said: “I wouldn’t put a line through it.”
He added clubs would be heavily consulted before a call was made.
“The feedback I have had is that if we do it, the earlier we can get started, I think it’s better for all parties,” Armstead said.
“It’s best if we give them early warning and can engage the players and the coaches early in the year, so we can put together a strong program if we do do it.
“That’s why we want to look at it ourselves later in the year and then communicate that through the clubs.”
The EDFL lost by two points to the Eastern league in a thriller in 2017.
The competition is flush with ex-AFL talent and regarded among the strongest suburban leagues in metropolitan Melbourne.
‘Step up’: Ayres’ call to cover ex-AFL forward
Montrose coach Gary Ayres discusses his plan to rejig the Dees’ attack following the exit of one of the club’s biggest stars, while there’s also been a package of key signings.
‘Supersized’: Local football club to host month of practice matches
A “Super Saturday” of practice matches will kick off a massive month of action at Cora Lynn, with country and metro leagues taking part. See the schedule.