Junior and Youth Football in South East Queensland will have a different look in 2020, with AFL Queensland announcing a revamped competition structure for next season and beyond.
The changes have been endorsed following a comprehensive review which commenced in 2016. The review included reassessing the competition structures, data and environments relating to all elements of Junior and Youth Football.
Throughout the review, multiple engagement phases were conducted with players, parents, club officials, coaches and umpires, with over 14,000 stakeholders participating in focus groups, surveys and interviews. Outcomes of the review to create quality competitions and environments that provide easy access and encourage participation in AFL.
The new South East Queensland Competitions also sees the amalgamation of Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast and Northern Rivers.
Ages 8.5 to 11.5
Footy4Fun is the next step for kids who are ready to move on from NAB AFL Auskick or other introductory programs. Playing rules and team numbers are modified so children can continue to develop their skills in an enjoyable and safe atmosphere. Footy4Fun is the perfect environment for kids to have fun learning through play, make new friends and create memories that last a lifetime.
Footy4Fun – What is new in 2020?
- Introduction of local zones across 4 new regions (North, Central, South & South/West)
- Reduced travel time
- Increased carnival opportunities across the new regions
- Age groups – aligning to standard school age policies
Please refer to Zones attachment – here
Some zones may be merged subject to team nominations received
Youth Football
There are two new exciting competition offerings to inspire youth football participants in South East Queensland. These offerings provide the opportunity for our participants to engage in our great game, in a way that suits them. The aim is to increase access, choice and opportunities for players to participate in a quality competition that suits their skills and aspirations.
Community Cup – What is new in 2020?
Tailor made for players of all abilities and aspirations, the Community Cup caters to teenage boys and girls. Fast and skilful, this competitive competition is a chance for players to play football with their teammates and establish new friendships, with a distinct focus on fun and team building.
- Introduction of local zones across 4 regions (North, Central, South & South/West), with the aim to reduce travel time where possible, in 12.5, 13.5 Girls, 14.5, 15.5 Girls. 16.5, 17.5 Girls
- 16-a-side competition – Reduced on-field playing numbers provides more opportunity for players to touch the football and develop their skills
- Introduction of E-points to reward positive game day behaviour
- Age groups – aligning to standard school age policies
- 16 round fixture
Please refer to Zones attachment – here
Some zones may be merged subject to team nominations received
Conference Championship – What is new in 2020?
The Conference Championship is tailor made for players who are seeking a wider variety of playing opportunity, as travel is not a barrier for them. Fast and skilful, this competition is a chance for players to play football with their teammates, and progress their playing skills in a traditional, competitive environment.
- Introduction of two conferences across South East Queensland (North & South) in 12.5, 14.5 & 16.5 Age Groups (cross conference games in 16’s age group)
- 14 round fixture
- Introduction of E-points to reward positive game day behaviour in youth football
- Age groups – aligning to standard school age policies
- Application process for clubs to nominate a team
For more information or to find your local club, click here
What does this mean for the female Conference Competition?
There has been significant growth in female football over recent years offering more opportunity for females to play the sport than ever before. In terms of the female Conference Competition we’re awaiting team nominations before determining the structure of this competition. While the growth across the female space has been significant sustained growth across all female age categories will build additional capacity to offer greater flexibility in match and competition fixturing.
Our 2019 participation numbers in female youth football indicate there may not be enough teams to support two competition offerings in 2020. If there is growth in team nominations in 2020 both competition offerings for youth football participants may be available.
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