AFL Central Victoria (AFLCV), the Heathcote District Football Netball League (HDFNL) and the Loddon Valley Football Netball League (LVFNL) are pleased to jointly announce a change in service administration arrangements, marking an exciting new chapter for both leagues.
In line with the AFL Victoria Regional Administration Centre (RAC) Strategies Project, the HDFNL and LVFNL will formally enter into a new and exciting service administration agreement with Central Victoria Sports Administration (CVSA).
CVSA was founded by trusted and highly experienced football and netball administrator Laura Naughton, a respected community football and netball operations expert, with extensive experience across league operations, football and netball administration, governance, financial management, facilities development, compliance, events management, and strategic planning.
This new arrangement is designed to strengthen league operations, enhance governance capability and support the long-term sustainability of both competitions as they transition to league self-management.
Rodney Stephens, Chairperson of the Heathcote District Football Netball League, said the agreement represents a positive step forward for the league.
“The HDFNL Board is pleased to have CVSA on board. Following Jan Mannes’ retirement at the conclusion of the 2025 season, the Board was unsure of how the administration of the League would end up going forward. We think this arrangement will work well for HDFNL.”
Richard Hicks, Chairperson of the Loddon Valley Football Netball League, echoed those sentiments.
“In response to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding changes to the RAC forecast issued by AFL Victoria, the Loddon Valley Football Netball League Board has considered its future administrative requirements.
“Accordingly, the Board is looking forward to engaging the services and resources of Central Victorian Sports Administration moving forward. This decision is aimed at ensuring stability, continuity, and effective governance during a period of transition.”
“Laura Naughton has built a fantastic reputation in sports administration, and we are excited to be working collaboratively with CVSA in strengthening the LVFNL into the future.”
AFL Central Victoria will fully support the transition and continue to work closely with both leagues and CVSA, alongside AFL Victoria, to ensure continuity, stability, and strong outcomes for clubs, participants and volunteers throughout the change process.
As part of these structural changes, Kyle Smith will conclude his role as LVFNL League Manager, having commenced in June 2024, following the recent announcement confirming the retirement of Jan Mannes as HDFNL Operations Manager following a significant period of service to the League. AFL Central Victoria, the HDFNL and LVFNL thank Jan and Kyle for their dedication and commitment to their leagues, clubs and volunteers, and wish them both well in their future endeavours.
Whilst local service delivery arrangements evolve, AFL Central Victoria will remain a strong and consistent presence across the region. The Central Victoria region will continue to be led by the experienced and skilled Regional Council, responsible for managing region-specific matters delegated by AFL Victoria and leading the strategic direction of football and netball across Central Victoria.
This collaborative approach reflects a shared commitment by AFLCV, HDFNL, LVFNL and CVSA to delivering high-quality administration, strong governance, and a sustainable future for community football and netball.
Further information regarding the transition and operational arrangements will be communicated directly with clubs and key stakeholders in due course.
Click HERE for the official Media Release
Further enquiries can be directed to:
AFL Central Victoria via cam.tomlins@afl.com.au
or
Central Victoria Sports Administration via admin@cvsa.com.au