Action gets underway in the new-look Omeo and District Football Netball League (ODFNL) this weekend.
With Swan Reach now in recess, the competition will feature a bye each round, while Swifts Creek will have its start to the season delayed by a further week.
Omeo Benambra will unveil its 2025 premiership flag against Bruthen, who head up the hill with high hopes after a strong off-season on the recruiting front. The Demons have added Dylan Doeke, Jake Keown, Dylan Somerville and Nick Ward (Wy Yung), Lucas Lakey (Lindenow) and Brendan Flinn (Lucknow), giving the side a fresh new look.
The early rounds of the ODFNL always generate interest as teams begin to reveal their form. As is often the case, the Alpine Ranges are keeping their cards close to their chest as they begin their quest for a three-peat. Saturday’s clash should provide an early indication of where both sides may sit in the 2026 pecking order.
Lindenow South, under the guidance of David Dennison, will welcome Buchan to the Swamp. While both sides have been quieter on the recruiting front compared to Bruthen and Swifts Creek, the Cavemen have secured two quality inclusions in former Gippsland League premiership player John Gooch and returning player Jock Coates, back after a stint in Melbourne.
Sam Howden will be a welcome inclusion for the home side, which went winless last season and will be eager to break its drought early.
As with the opening match, it remains a wait-and-see scenario, with plenty to be learned before making any firm predictions.
