MPFNL: Frankston YCW and Crib Point withdraw under-19s

Four MPFNL clubs have scrapped their under-19 sides ahead of the 2023 season, including grand finalists Frankston YCW.

Frankston YCW's Under 19s last season. Picture: Craig Barrett

Mornington Peninsula football league clubs are struggling for young players like never before.

Frankston YCW and Sorrento have informed AFL South East that they are not in a position to compete in the MPFNL Division 1 Under 19s competition in 2023.

Likewise, Chelsea and Crib Point won’t have Under 19 sides in Division 2.

It’s a rapid fall for Frankston YCW, which played off in last season’s U19s grand final, losing to Mt Eliza by two points.

Frankston YCW president Louise Meagher said the club “explored multiple angles’’ to field an under 19s.

“Our junior program has had a noticeable gap through this age group, coupled with COVID amongst other factors we simply don’t have the numbers required on the track,’’ Meagher wrote in YCW’s newsletter.

“We looked at the opportunity to elevate our Under 17 playing group, however with the longevity of our club and with the 17’s football development in mind, the senior and junior clubs feel it is in the 17’s best interest to play and enjoy their final year of juniors together.’’

Meagher said Frankston YCW was not alone, with other clubs around Victoria facing the same challenges.

“As a club we must look to the future, strengthen our junior pathway program and future proof our senior program to ensure this doesn’t happen again,’’ she said.

In 2023, eight clubs will compete in the MPFNL Division 1 Under 19s competition, with 10 in Division 2.

DIVISION 1

Bonbeach

Dromana

Frankston Bombers

Langwarrin

Mt Eliza

Pines

Red Hill

Rosebud

DIVISION 2

Devon Meadows

Edithvale-Aspendale

Hastings

Karingal

Mornington

Pearcedale

Rye

Seaford

Somerville

Tyabb/Mt Eliza