SYKES CAUTIONS VCFL ON FOOTBALL CLUB MOVES

The Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes, says the Victorian Country Football League (VCFL) must not sacrifice the future of young footballers and netballers in Alexandra, Thornton/Eildon and Yea, as it tries to come up with a more workable country football and netball league structure in North Central Victoria.

Dr Sykes who attended the Alexandra Football/Netball Club Patrons Day on Sunday, 31 July, is a very strong supporter of football and netball clubs and speaks highly of the role that clubs play in providing young people with a sense of belonging and learning to get along with mates.

Dr Sykes said, “I was very impressed by the atmosphere at the Alexandra clubrooms and the sense of inclusiveness – it was like one large happy family.

“It is vital that we protect this team spirit and camaraderie and that is why I share local concerns about the possibility of Alexandra, Thornton/Eildon and Yea Football and Netball Clubs being shifted to the Yarra Valley League, which have limited netball and junior football teams.

Dr Sykes continued, “The VCFL has a difficult task in addressing the concerns of a large number of teams but it is critical that in this decision making process that netballers’ and junior footballers’ needs are met.

I have arranged for fellow Nationals’ MP, and former Fremantle Dockers coach, Damian Drum, to meet with concerned football/netball clubs to ‘kick around’ options and to ensure that the VCFL has the interests of our young people at heart.

Dr Sykes concluded, “Country football / netball clubs are the heart of country communities, they provide wonderful opportunities for young people to become involved in an extended family environment.

“I will work with Damian Drum and local football representatives to achieve the best possible outcome for our young people.

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989