The 2024 Country Leagues Football Association (CLFA) Championships took place from June 8-10 at Football Federation Sunraysia.
Over 1500 players from Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Latrobe Valley, Gippsland, Southwest Association Shepparton, Mildura, and Albury-Wodonga participated in the event.
Competition Age Groups:
- Girls: U12, U14, U16, U18
- Boys: U11, U12, U13, U14, U15, U16, U18
Post tournament, CLFA President Mark Leman congratulated Football Federation Sunraysia on a "very successful tournament".
"Without the hard dedicated work by Susan Watts and her team this type of event would not happen," he explained.
"Special mention to Neville Keen, Gary Holt for making sure the results and the running of the tournament went efficiently. Heading to Mildura is the longest trip most associations had to travel, so a huge thank you to all of those who travelled and made this tournament a great success.
"We look forward to seeing you all back in Albury in 2025."
The Championships brought up to 4,000 players and spectators which equated to an estimated economic stimulus of up to 2 million into the local economy.
Over 50 referees from all parts the state came together to officiate the 196 matches, they were also joined by officials from NSW and Tasmania and eight from Metro Melbourne.
Football Victoria, Head of Referees, Tony Peart said it was an "incredible" effort by all, with on average most officials averaging seven games a day.
" It's a great event to see so many potential refereeing talents from across the state," he explained.
"This weekend has shown me we have many great people across all parts of Victoria. We all need to now make sure we can keep them in the game to allow this talent to progress.
"Anton Wurfel acting in the referee appointments role for the event worked incredibly hard over the days leading up to the event and throughout to ensure officials were provided."
A full photo album of the weekend's action will be available soon though Rebecca Horrocks Photography!