MPFNL: Frankston Bombers outline plans to bounce back after relegation from Division 1

From the disappointment of relegation has come a surge of optimism and determination at the Frankston Bombers, who have set a timeframe to return to the MPFNL top flight.

Frankston Bombers pre game huddle this season. Picture: Andrew Batsch

From disappointment has come a surge of optimism and determination at the Frankston Bombers.

Still stinging after being relegated from MPFNL Division 1 on Saturday, the Bombers have shown their pride and good old fighting spirit.

In a letter to club members, players and stakeholders, Frankston Bombers president Jason Smith:

*applauded coach Jarrad Grant’s commitment and backed him to steer the club to success in Division 2 next year.

*predicted the newly created U19 Nick Haynes Academy to lay the foundations of future success at the club.

*revealed the club’s vision to return to Division 1 within two years.

*said recruiting was vital.

Frankston Bombers started the 2024 season brightly with a narrow win over Langwarrin before also beating Rosebud and Pines before the halfway mark.

Jason Kingsbury missed most of the second half of the season through injury. Picture: Andrew Batsch

But, hampered by injuries to key players including Khan Haretuku and Jason Kingsbury, the Bombers limped to the line — managing only five wins for the season.

Their loss to Sorrento on Saturday saw them drop to bottom spot for the first time all season as Mornington jumped ahead of them with a gripping win over Red Hill.

“Our season was marred by significant and long-term injuries to key players, which unfortunately could not be adequately replaced,” Smith said.

Smith said Grant stepped into the senior coaching role “under challenging circumstances following a preseason we’d rather forget’’.

“Jarrad transitioned from player to coach with professionalism and dedication, despite it being an unexpected shift after the Christmas break,’’ he said.

“His reappointment in June is a testament to his commitment to the Frankston Bombers, and we are confident in his ability to lead our program back to Division 1 football as soon as possible.”

Bayleigh Welsh.

Alex Harnett.

Behind the scenes, Frankston Bombers have created the U19 Nick Haynes Academy, named after the AFL Giant who started his career at the Frankston Bombers.

“Over 35 young men have signed up for this program, with an information session scheduled for August 28th. This initiative aims to build stability from the ground up, with the long-term goal of establishing ourselves at the top of the Division 1 ladder and competing in high-level finals within a 3-4 year timeframe,’’ Smith said.

“Our vision remains unchanged, and this relegation provides us with an opportunity to gain valuable experience and develop a winning program. Our aim is to return to Division 1 within two years and continue to climb from there.’’

Smith said the club doesn’t “intend to remain in Division 2 for long’’.

“The playing group is united in its determination to return to Division 1, and our football department is actively identifying the recruits we need to achieve our goals,’’ he said.

“Frankston Bombers FNC is an inviting place to be right now, offering the chance to be part of a journey toward success.’’