GEELONG will make its VFL return as an AFL curtain-raiser, which looms as a regular feature of second-tier football in 2021.
The Cats will play North Melbourne ahead of the Round 5 AFL clash between the two clubs at GMHBA Stadium on April 18.
Geelong will have the first of three byes in the nineteen round season in Round 2, with the fixture for Round 3 onwards to be released at a later date.
The AFL says the VFL competition, which will feature twenty-two clubs from Victoria, NSW and Queensland, will have over 80 per cent alignment with the AFL fixture, with Victorian-based clubs to travel with their AFL club interstate for matches.
“We are so excited that VFL footy is back,” the AFL’s Tristan Salter said.
“Although we have to be vigilant, aware and responsible throughout the season, we cannot overstate the excitement of everybody connected to the VFL about the return in April.
“Last year was devastating to everyone connected to community football. The AFL is very proud of how all VFL clubs, players, officials, supporters and corporate partners managed through a difficult year and kept their communities connected.”
“All 22 clubs play a vital role in keeping their suburban and regional networks engaged. They are pillars of their local communities and so important to growing and nurturing our national code.”
Werribee opens its season with consecutive homes games.
The Tigers play Collingwood in a day game on Saturday, April 17, followed by a night clash with arch-rival Williamstown on April 24.
Twitter: @tom_king79
