After a summer of uncertainty, North Shore will take its place in this year’s GFNL football season.
Following a committee meeting last night, where two options – fielding senior and reserves teams in 2025 or going into recess – were discussed, the GFNL’s most successful club today informed AFL Barwon that it is ready to play.
It follows a fortnight of conjecture about North Shore’s ability to find the players necessary to field two teams after correspondence from AFL Barwon outlining its concerns became public.
In the letter dated February 13, the local governing body requested that North Shore provide written confirmation of fielding seniors and reserves teams, complete of player registrations for at least 60 players, and contract a “sufficient number of players” for its senior team by the end of February.
After only receiving what AFL Barwon labelled as “verbal assurances”, it started planning for a football season without the Seagulls.
However, since the letter became public, regular training numbers are sitting around the 30 mark, while registrations have passed 50, satisfying the local government body.
AFL Barwon says North Shore has given assurances those registered are active players.
“The North Shore committee has carefully considered their options and made the decision to proceed with the 2025 season,” AFL Barwon chair Michelle Gerdtz said in a statement.
“We commend their dedication to their players, members, and the wider football and netball community.
“While this is a positive step forward, we acknowledge that ongoing efforts will be required to ensure the long-term sustainability of North Shore FNC.
“AFL Barwon remains committed to supporting the club in this journey.”
Newly-appointed North Shore Maryian Szponar says work has begun to ensure the club doesn’t find itself in this situation again.
“Plans are already in motion to strengthen our football division this season, for 2026, and beyond, which will lay the groundwork to future-proof pathways for new talent and boost junior development to secure a prosperous future,” he said.
“Following months of consultation, planning, and hard conversations, North Shore is proud to confirm
its commitment to fielding two senior football teams in the 2025 season.
“The club is also embracing transparency and collaboration, giving AFL Barwon an open invitation to be part of committee meetings and match-day events to ensure ongoing progress.
“We’re prepared to open the doors, work hand-in-hand with AFL Barwon and welcome check-ins throughout the season from the outside for people see the struggles, but it’s also what happens on the inside that matters and makes the difference.”
However, the northern suburbs remains a watch for AFL Barwon and AFL Victoria, with a forum involving several clubs north of Separation Street held late last year.
“There is still much work to be done by North Shore, AFL Barwon and AFL Victoria to ensure a sustainable program into the future,” AFL Barwon’s statement said.
“This work has already commenced with a clear focus on the development of junior programs across the northern suburbs.
North Shore, which has no practice matches scheduled, opens its season against Colac at Central Reserve on Saturday, April 12
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