- Published:
- Friday 9 September 2016
This month’s V/Line Cup is set to be bigger and better, with V/Line extending its sponsorship to feature the growing Youth Girls division.
Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan today joined Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards, Melbourne Demons star Melissa Hickey and players from the Bendigo Pioneers at the Queen Elizabeth Oval in Bendigo to announce the partnership.
For the first time this year, the V/Line Cup regional AFL tournament will involve both the Under 15 Boys and Youth Girls divisions.
Now in its thirteenth year as partner of the carnival, V/Line has helped young regional players challenge themselves against the best in their age group across Victoria.
AFL is one of the fastest growing sports in the country, with more than 42,000 females lacing up their boots in 2015 and around 100 new female AFL teams established across the state this year alone.
Supporting regional football helps to set a strong foundation for female football players to play at a national level in anticipation of the inaugural AFL women’s league, which commences next season.
In 2016, the four-day V/Line Cup tournament will include nine Youth Girls teams, including the Bendigo Pioneers, and 14 Under-15 boys sides from across regional Victoria. The V/Line Cup will take place in Gippsland from 26 to 29 September.
For many players competing at these championships, this will be a stepping-stone to AFL Victoria’s mainstream talent pathway, the TAC Cup.
The V/Line Cup also provides a boost to the local economy in the Latrobe region, with an estimated $2.1 million generated last year. This is expected to increase when more than 3,000 participants flock to the region for the tournament later this month.
In addition to the tournament, V/Line also provides an important development pathway for young regional umpires, with all field umpires at the tournament members of V/Line Umpire Academy.
For more information about the V/Line Cup visit, http://www.aflvic.com.au/vline-cup/
Quote attributable to Minister for Public Transport Jacinta Allan
“There’s nothing quite like a game of footy to bring people together — and V/Line’s support helps to ensure more young athletes get the opportunity to follow their dreams on the field.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
“It’s wonderful to see so many young talented female players rising through the ranks here in Bendigo. I wish all players the best of luck at this year’s tournament.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
“This tournament gives young local players the chance to showcase their skills, while providing a boost to the Latrobe Valley’s businesses, traders and Gippsland communities.”