AFL Barwon’s hopes for a 12-team Bellarine Football Netball League have suffered a blow with the so-called ‘mystery club’ withdrawing its application.
An email sent to clubs and seen by K rock Football has been sent to clubs ahead of a now-cancelled meeting between the local governing body and Bellarine clubs scheduled for tonight (Wednesday) to discuss the entry of Surf Coast and the 12th Club.
“As part of an extensive review of this second application, including several face-to-face engagements, the Club has opted to withdraw its application for entry into the Bellarine FNL for 2025,” the email from Region General Manager Ed Wilson said.
“AFL Barwon is supportive of this withdrawal noting the Club did not meet all four pillars of entry criteria – Facilities, Financials, Participation and Club Development.
“Following this withdrawal, the Club has requested continued confidentiality, noting the public significance and attention with originally expressing an interest in moving leagues within the local community.
“AFL Barwon respects this request and will continue to honour this, noting the conclusion of their application process”.
A meeting to discuss Surf Coast’s application will be held next Wednesday following AFL Barwon’s final face-to-face meeting with the Suns next Monday.
“We understand the timing of this notification may cause inconvenience, and we apologise for this,” Wilson wrote.
“Our absolute intent is to respect the time of each BFNL Club representative, and noting the requirement for this final face-to-face engagement with Surf Coast FNC to take place first, that will ensure as a collective group of representatives on 29 May you are able to be engaged in full.
A media release is expected from AFL Barwon, who have been contacted for comment, later today.
X: @krockfootball
