Sport
24 October, 2025
District League unveils Strategic Plan
THE Warrnambool District Football Netball League (WDFNL) has unveiled its Strategic Plan 2026–2030, outlining a bold vision for the future of football and netball across the Warrnambool district.
Developed following extensive consultation with clubs, players, volunteers, and the wider community, the new plan sets a clear direction for the league over the next five years.
The plan focusses on strong, inclusive and sustainable competitions that connect people, support growth, and create opportunities for everyone to participate and thrive.
WDFNL board member Larissa Barclay said the Strategic Plan represents an exciting new chapter for the league and the communities it serves.
“This is a brand-new plan, built from the ground up through genuine engagement with our clubs and community,” Ms Barclay said.
“It reflects who we are today, and the kind of league we want to be; one that supports its clubs, invests in its juniors, and celebrates the people who make community sport possible.”
The plan’s purpose is to provide strong, inclusive, and sustainable football and netball competitions that foster participation, skill development, and community connection across the Warrnambool district.
Its vision is to grow a welcoming football and netball community where clubs work together to connect people, celebrate achievement, and share a lifelong love of sport - ensuring everyone feels included, supported, and proud to belong.
For the first time, the league has introduced a new set of values that will underpin its culture and guide decision-making.
The values outlined in the plan include the following:
Inclusion – we embrace diversity and welcome everyone, ensuring our League is where everyone can belong, participate, and thrive.
Respect – we treat every person, role, and contribution with dignity, building a culture of care, connection, and pride.
Integrity – we act with honesty, fairness, and transparency, upholding the spirit of the game and the trust of our community.
Leadership – we take initiative, lead by example, and motivate others through purposeful action and shared commitment.
Excellence – we aim high, give our all, and celebrate achievement, knowing success is built together.
“These are brand-new values for our league and they reflect the spirit, inclusiveness, and community pride that define us,” Ms Barclay said.
“They will guide how we support our clubs, develop our juniors, and lead with purpose and integrity.”
The 2026–2030 Strategic Plan is structured around five key pillars:
1. Inclusive Community and Club Engagement – building welcoming, inclusive clubs that celebrate diversity, strengthen volunteer engagement, and foster connection.
2. Facilities and Infrastructure – advocating for safe, modern, and accessible facilities that meet the needs of growing clubs.
3. Participation Growth and Player Development – expanding opportunities for players, coaches, and umpires of all ages and abilities, with a strong focus on junior development and pathways.
4. Governance, Leadership and Sustainability – supporting effective governance, leadership, and long-term sustainability across the League and its clubs.
5. Collaboration and Strategic Partnerships – strengthening partnerships with AFL Victoria, Netball Victoria, councils, schools, and community organisations to drive growth and innovation.
According to Ms Barclay, the league will track progress and measure success on an ongoing basis to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.
Key indicators include:
Growth in junior participation across football and netball.
Stronger club governance, leadership, and financial sustainability.
Increased coaching and umpiring recruitment and retention.
Enhanced volunteer engagement and recognition.
Tangible progress on facility and infrastructure upgrades.
“Our success will be measured not just by premierships, but by the strength of our clubs, the growth of our juniors, and the connections we build through sport,” Ms Barclay said.
“This plan gives us a clear roadmap for the next five years and one that’s focused on inclusion, development, and community pride.”
The formal launch of the WDFNL Strategic Plan 2026–2030 will take place in early 2026, with a series of club and community events to celebrate the new direction and share the league’s vision for the future.
