There is plenty of positive news surrounding the launch of Northpark NFLW, as exemplified by Bendigo Thunder’s recent announcement of a partnership with Richmond Football Club.
Joining forces with Richmond in order to strengthen the female talent pathway and develop skills across all levels of the club, Bendigo Thunder head coach, Cherie O’Neill, is optimistic about the “amazing prospects” the partnership will provide.
“It’s a good pathway for the juniors who are stepping up and wondering if they have to go and play in Melbourne and now they can see that there is a pathway through country football,” O’Neill said.
“Richmond will help us out across the board.
“They are planning to help us out in developing our girls and developing myself, and providing assistance to all of our coaching staff and allowing us to use their facilities.”
Bendigo Thunder will be competing against Darebin, Pascoe Vale, Deer Park, Diamond Creek, Kew, La Trobe Uni, Melbourne Uni, VU Western Spurs and Whitehorse to hold the Division 1 Northpark NFLW cup aloft.
After losing the VWFL Premier Division Grand Final by 13 points to Deer Park last year, Bendigo Thunder are desperate to atone this year.
“Have a good solid season and hopefully make finals and then go one win better,” O’Neill said in regards to her club’s aim this year.
Being led out onto the field by captain Leah French and vice-captain Jac Louttit will hold Bendigo in good stead and O’Neill is enthused by the return of Grace Campbell and Lily Campbell and believes that there is plenty of promise through the centre of the ground.
“A lot of things have changed since last year. We have a lot of exciting players coming up to fill roles,” she said.
O’Neill is also delighted by her team’s “very positive” pre-season that has seen an average of 36 to 40 girls at training every night.
“It’s exciting times for us. We are looking forward to getting stuck into the season.”
If you are looking to play in the Northpark NFLW competition, click here to see the list of clubs and register you interest.
