Last night the league officially notified its members of a change from even-numbered age groups to an odd-numbered set-up.
The league also announced the Youth Girls competition would fall under the banner of the Northern Country Women's League as of the 2022 season.
Historically the league has offered under-10, under-12, under-14 and under-16 age groups as well as an under-18 Youth Girls competition.
But the move to odd-numbered age groups will have under-9, under-11, under-13 and under-15 competitions offered to footballers of the region.
“Changing from even numbered age groups to odd numbered age groups provides our clubs with the chance to have some surety in the top end age groups, as well as provide the opportunity for Auskick players to take the step into organised football a year earlier,” league president Mark Lambourn said.
“The local landscape has changed, and for a range of reasons. The data showed that the numbers weren’t looking good for us to provide an under-16 competition from 2022.
“We believe moving to odd age groups will not only allow our clubs to plan for the under-15s, but also reduce the competition for participation at the under-16 level.
“The Auskick numbers are very strong this year and what we’re hearing from Auskick co-ordinators, players and parents is that these kids are looking to make the jump earlier.
“This should provide them with the opportunity to do so.”
It is hoped that aligning the junior women's football with its senior counterpart will provide a smooth progression for all players through their career.
“We’re also excited for the Youth Girls competition to join forces with the Northern Country Women’s League,” Lambourn said.
“Our hope is that both competitions falling under the one banner will provide a pathway for girls into senior football and we can see more females playing the sport for life.”
The league held an Acknowledgement Night on Wednesday night, completing its 2021 campaign.
“2021’s stop-start nature has thrown up extra challenges in an already different year,” Lambourn said.
“Junior sport doesn’t happen without parents, coaches and volunteers, so tonight is a chance to celebrate the great things that did happen this season.”
Echuca United’s Daryl Poole won Youth Coach of the Year for his work with the Eagles’ Youth Girls team, while Moama’s Lachlan Hogan capped off a brilliant season by winning both the under-16 Ken Keating Medal and MVP award.
Echuca’s Liam Gronow was the under-14 MVP winner, while Echuca was joint winner for the most disciplined under-16 team.
More on the award winners in next week’s Riverine Herald.
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