Great Flinders Football League

The Great Flinders Football League was officially formed in 1911 and from humble beginnings, football and netball have become a very important part of Recreation and Social Life within the boundaries of this great League - a fine tribute to two major country sports.

The reputation that Great Flinders enjoys as a tough competitor on the field can be attributed in part to our earliest history when pioneers were clearing land carved out with axes, horses and very hard work.

The area was transformed from a Sea of Mallee to the very productive rural region that it is today.

They were men of steel, whose character seem to be inherited and embedded in our young sportspeople and our "traditional" values seem to stem from these people.

Great Flinders Football League

“If you didn't play football in Great Flinders, you were missing something very special.”

For many hundreds who have played football and netball in this League there has been the challenge, the excitement and pressure of playing sport in Great Flinders. For those who have played in Premierships and Championship teams there has been the pleasure, price and celebrations that go with winning.

Young players have been inspired by senior players. They have watched over the years and they have graduated to put their own ability to the ultimate test of character, stamina and determination on the line.

Football has taught more than just the skills of the game. It has enhanced mutual respect, team work, and achievement.

If you didn't play football in Great Flinders, you were missing something very special. The fellowship was deeper and relationships were more important. Country Football is all about mateship and cars around the oval with horns blaring when your team kicks a goal. It is about volunteers who work tirelessly to keep their team on the ground and most of all it's about Family from the E grade netballer to the Senior Footballer and all grades in between. Playing sport at the same centre and joining in with the after match activities with the Opposition win, lose or draw.

Don McSweeny OAM

(Written in the Foreword of 'Great Flinders Football League Centenary 1911-2011 - wearing maroon with pride)