Based on changes introduced by AFL Victoria, the league has increased the age limits for both thirds and fourths which is set to come into effect for the 2027 season.
The Murray League junior football age groups will move from under-14s to under-15s and under-17s to under-18s.
As a result, players in the premiership winning Cats’ fourths will again be eligible for fourths next year.
The only issue with the changes may relate to the Cats’ under-12 and under-10 programs, with the impact and possible adjustments being investigated.
However, Finley Football Netball Club’s new president Matt Hannan said the club was looking forward to development opportunities presented by the incoming league changes.
He said the changes build on the success of the club’s junior system.
“My observations from the outside looking in has been when children are in junior sport they sometimes need that extra year to develop,” he said.
“One of the strengths for the Finley Football Netball Club has been the success of the under-10s and under-12s programs.
“It helps the development of those kids who are probably a little too old for Auskick that are allowed a couple more years before entering the fourths, and I think you can probably see that in the results from this season.”
Hannan said the club is also of the view it will help other clubs and communities across the league area.
“What my experience so far has been, Football Victoria and the Murray League are committed to work with all clubs so all juniors have clear pathways - all the way from Auskick right through to senior football.
“That improves the development of players and leads to further retention at clubs.
“It potentially continues that trend where kids might go away for schooling. It encourages kids to come back and to bring the youth back to play for the local clubs right around the region.”
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