Teams in the Northern Country Women’s League will get a chance to take to the field before the home and away campaign kicks off as they take part in the atWork Australia Pre-season Cup this weekend.
Five clubs will take to the field at Tatura Park on Sunday, March 19, competing in the round-robin tournament.
The top two sides will then face off in the grand final for a shot to claim silverware.
Reigning champion Castlemaine will be at the tournament, alongside Echuca, Nagambie, North Bendigo and host Tatura.
North Bendigo and Nagambie will enter teams for the first time, with preparations ramping up for the Lakers ahead of their inaugural NCWL senior women’s season.
League operations manager Julian Perta said it was looking forward to hosting the pre-season cup following the success of last year.
“It is always a great day out at the footy and is a celebration of women’s football prior to the commencement of the season,” Perta said.
“Last year the games were played in great spirits and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, so we certainly hope that joy and excitement continues into this year’s tournament.”
The matches will start at noon, with each team scheduled to contest against each other.
Each match will have two 12-minute halves and the first match will have Castlemaine take on the home team.
As part of the event, 10 to 16-year-old girls will also be able to take part in a free Footy 4 Fun development session.
The session, which starts at 10am, will include coaching and drills, followed by a game of AFLX football – the short-form version of the game.
Those wanting to take part in the Footy 4 Fun session can register at https://www.playhq.com/afl/register/dc5cd7
Entry to the event is free, with the canteen open and providing food and drink throughout the day.
“Tatura Park is a terrific venue where we have hosted finals matches over the past two seasons and we appreciate Tatura accommodating the tournament for the day,” league chairman Chris Thomas said.
“This is a wonderful day of football, so I would certainly encourage any and all to come down, have a bite to eat and enjoy a great day at the football.”
The day’s action is scheduled to conclude with a presentation following the final match at 5.30pm.