FOOTBALL/NETBALL
MID GIPPSLAND
By ZAIDA GLIBANOVIC
THE Mid Gippsland Football-Netball League started their season with a bang at the launch night last Wednesday (March 28).
Featuring big name guest speakers Anthony Koutoufides and Abbey Holmes, it was certainly a night to remember.
Vibes were high as premiership winning clubs finally got their hands on their flags.
Representatives from all clubs adorned their club polo’s for the first official time, chatting away about the season to come.
The night was well received my more than 120 guests from the 13 clubs in the league.
Football coaches might have had an extra skip in their step accepting their premiership flag off no other than the Carlton legend. Koutoufides spoke of his journey both as an aspiring Olympic athlete and Carlton footballer.
Koutoufides talked about his love of football being the deciding factor when faced with a crossroad of having to choose a path.
The Carlton premiership star also touched on his battles with confidence, the death of his father and some inconsistent form.
Holmes’ story was equally inspiring.
Before she was a Channel 7 reporter, Holmes spoke of how she worked her way up as a junior Australian netball representative and her transition into football where she was the first woman to kick more than 100 goals in an official women’s football league season (NT).
Holmes was drawn to the media after receiving much media attention investing every cent she had to be considered, eventually securing the opportunity she now has with Channel 7 as boundary commentator.
The night was a celebration, with MGFNL President, Gary Matthews receiving life membership acknowledging his service to the league.
The MGFNL will eagerly look toward to a new season, with the first round set to start Saturday, April 13.
It will be a jam-packed start to the year, with 2023 senior football premier, Fish Creek set to host the Grand Final rematch against Newborough.
The reigning A Grade netball premier, Yinnar, will also welcome their fellow Grand Finalists in Toora.
