AFL Riverina Media Release – Under 17’s Review

The AFL Riverina Board met with representatives from the Under 17’s Review Committee last night and discussed the recommendations of the committee.
The AFL Riverina Board agreed with the recommendation of the review committee which included;
• That for the 2013 season the Under 17’s age group remains as the competition structure.
• That a single Under 17’s competition structure be introduced in 2013 combining the Riverina and Farrer FNL clubs that have nominated teams.
• That the draw, which is currently work in progress, will be used as a gauge to consider financial impacts on competing clubs.
• That an 18 round draw be developed for the Under 17’s competition.
• That a final five series be implemented as part of the competition structure.
• That a “showcase” concept be introduced into the competition structure. This would feature “triple header” (Round 1 season launch games –normal time game time) and “double header” (midweek games under lights with a reduced game time). 
• That AFL Riverina allocates funds towards the promotional and competition costs of the new structure.
• That the Under 17’s competition be continually monitored in 2013 by the review committee with the view of implementing relevant changes for the 2014 season.
The AFL Riverina Board believe the benefits of the recommendations include –
• A great opportunity to showcase and promote a stand alone Under 17’s competition, and more importantly the participating players, by playing in showcase matches prior to the season and at certain times through out the season.
• A measure to assist all clubs with the retention and recruitment of players in this age group given the number of clubs that have nominated teams for season 2013.
• Competition allows greater flexibility- Clubs can withdraw or enter teams each year based on retention of junior players from there feeder junior club or other junior clubs. 
• Giving the players the opportunity to play at different venues in the Riverina and MIA under a different competition format inclusive of mid week and night games.
• An opportunity for clubs to play against new opposition in a combined Under 17’s competition.
• The allocation of funds to assist clubs with some of the logistics involved in a combined Under 17’s competition.
• AFL Riverina will construct a draw with a goal of a clubs not playing home games away from their senior club in minimal rounds e.g. 3 – 4 times during the season. 
• The combined competition will create a more balanced competition considering the results of games in both the Riverina FNL and Farrer FNL Under 17’s competition in 2012 that saw a number of games very lopsided.
• Finals series to be played in line with the RFL Final series