Firstandfinal wrote: Interesting to understand the need for F Grade, 28+ age group and the "pathway to Masters" philosophy?
I don't see F grade as "growing the game" at all, it's more hindering AFL Masters WA Supers comp (35+) and selfish by the WAAFL to go up against the masters comp, many will say they are not and this is designed for 28-35yo players - but there's no cap on the age - the comp won't kick players out once they turn 35.
If players 28+ can remain at their club, play for premiership points & a flag then why would they move to Supers where you "play for kicks"? So for the WAAFL it's a smart move to retain players
But lets be honest how many 28+ will be playing F grade? more like the 30 somethings will be playing at this level - remain at the club and play with mates so it is a direct competition against masters.
AFL Masters have potentially been left behind again, the masters comp don't seem to embrace change very well but they couldve countered WAAFL by introducing supers for points to retain this age group of players as they do on the east coast.
If supers played for points would that attract more players or be a detraction?
Is there a capability for WAAFL to swallow up the masters comp by bringing in H grade for Masters and I grade for invalids...sorry I mean seniors?
I do not think masters should be considered, many players that will be in this comp will have been at clubs for 10-20 years, they do not want to be forced to leave and join a masters club.
I also think the age limit should be higher, clubs don't want the younger players taking the easy option of playing in an f-grade comp. I would have started at at least 32. 28 year olds should be pushing harder.