NFL 2018: Clubs deliver verdict on Eltham Collegians move from VAFA

WILL Eltham Collegians be moving to the Northern Football League? The verdict from clubs is in.

ELTHAM Collegians are poised to join the Northern Football League after receiving overwhelming support from clubs.

NFL clubs voted on the Turtles’ proposed switch from the VAFA on Wednesday, with all but one supporting the move.

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It has paved the way for Eltham Collegians to join Division 3 next year and become the NFL’s 28th senior club.

“It’s huge. It gives us a chance to really sure up the viability of our club and it’s really a chance to expand and get into the community a lot more,” incoming president Ben Crellin said.

“It has also given us a chance to really strengthen our relationship with the school (Eltham College) and our alumni committee as well, which is great for us.”

The Turtles were relegated from VAFA Division 2 this year, finishing with a 1-17 record after battling a player shortage.

The club identified travel as a major issue in its submission to the NFL after facing teams from Albert Park, Burwood and Doveton this year.

Eltham Collegians takes on Bulleen Templestowe this year in the VAFA.

Eltham Collegians will instead make the shorter trips to clubs including Panton Hill, Heideberg West and Laurimar next year.

“The time was right for us to have a go at something that was going to be a bit more sustainable for us,” Crellin said.

“That whole idea of getting into the community, really getting into a community league that fit with our vision and mission as well.”

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John Garrard has been reappointed as senior coach and Crellin said he was “definitely excited” by the challenge of leading the club in its maiden NFL season.

“He’s played northern footy league for most of his career and he has been very influential in the move and is keen to get started,” he said.

Eltham Collegians had been part of the VAFA since 1986, featuring in Division 2 for the past decade.

The club’s admission is likely to mean a nine-team Division 3 competition in 2019, with premier St Mary’s promoted to Division 2.

“We have got a little bit more to offer now to players,” Crellin said.

“We are offering guys to get around the community, play against their mates and play at grounds with a good amount of supporters with the local area as well.”

Crellin said he expected the move to be given the green light by AFL Victoria.

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