
AFLThe Barwon club in Lara has taken a break for the 2026 season following its inability to create a senior men's program for the upcoming Geelong Football Netball League campaign.
Following discussions between AFL Barwon, AFLVictoria and the Lara FNC Management, along with a discussion with the Lara Sporting Club on Monday, led to the decision as the Cats faced difficulties in forming Senior and Reserve teams this season.
The "challenging choice" is made while keeping the club's "long-term strength and endurance" of the Lara FNC as a priority.
"The Lara Football Netball Club has conveyed its sincere disappointment at being unable to field Senior and Reserve Men's Football teams for the 2026 season," stated the club.
This was a challenging choice, taken with the Club's long-term health and viability in mind. Although this presents a hurdle, it also offers a chance to concentrate on restoring and enhancing our base.
We deeply appreciate all who have shown patience and continued support throughout this time of change.
The Cats have stated that their Senior Women's Football, Under 18, Junior, and Netball initiatives will proceed as scheduled.
AFLBarwon Chair Ashley West stated that the competition recognized the club's "very difficult situation."
“AFLBarwon recognises the seriousness of the choice taken by the Lara Sporting Club this evening. It is a very difficult situation for any club, and we commend the thorough decision-making process, which took into account the wider effects on the league.
We continue to be hopeful that, with active involvement of young players in both football and netball, as well as recent improvements in senior netball and women's football, Lara can recover effectively from the current difficulties faced by the senior men's football team.AFLBarwon is entirely dedicated to collaborating with the Lara Sporting Club to restore a key development corridor and a significant sporting community and social hub for the town and surrounding area.
Community football and netball are more robust with a viable and competitive Lara.
“AFLBarwon recognises the hard work of Lara FNC officials, volunteers, and members, who play a vital role in their club and local community. We are determined to continue collaborating closely with the Lara FNC Executive to aid the club through these difficult times and help create a stable future.
Lara's senior squad was scheduled to welcome St Mary's on April 18 to kick off the new season. The club concluded the 2025 season in 11th place on the table, securing one victory out of 18 games, with a percentage of 19.83.
The Lara Sports Club was established in 1880 and has claimed 10 championships, with its latest victory occurring in 2002.
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