Sport
2 April, 2025
Bombers ready to fly
WHILE a small handful of Hampden League clubs have opted to play junior football matches on a Saturday, Cobden will continue to fly on Sundays in season 2025.
The junior Bombers will commence their season at home against South Warrnambool on Sunday.
Fielding sides in the under 10, under 12, under 14 and under 16 divisions in what will be a very strong Hampden League junior competition, the Bombers are eager to make their mark early.
“Last year the league went through a junior action group process, involving all clubs, which involved discussions on the possibility of moving junior footy matches to Saturday’s,” Cobden’s junior club president Chris Walsh said.
“Some clubs have opted to trial this in season 2025 but we are not one of them.
“Our junior and senior committees weighed up all the pros and cons but Sunday football, with all junior grades playing at the same venue on the same day, received overwhelming support.”
Walsh said the club’s major focus was on developing its juniors, allowing them to play at times which showcase their skills for future pathways.
“These Sunday game times allow our coaches, volunteers, parents and grandparents to attend on match day, playing on quality grounds and utilising great facilities,” Welsh said.
“This makes the juniors the showcase of the day. No alcohol is available at the venue, creating a family environment.”
Walsh said the ‘travel factor’ for away games was also taken into consideration – as was the ability to use permit players if player numbers were low.
“Sunday football has treated our club very well in the past, with many decorated players coming through the system, not just at Cobden but also providing a pathway through to the Ballarat Rebels, Geelong Falcons, the VFL and AFL.
“Our juniors are also our future under 18s, reserves and seniors.
“We hope to create a positive experience and that families appreciate the club where they started. It’s never too late for boys and girls to start their football journey and at the Bombers we welcome everyone.”
Cobden’s junior coaches for season 2025 are Martin Darcy (under 16s), Brad Couch (under 14s), Greg Darcy (under 12s) and Matty Robertson (under 10s).
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