The state leagues are often the unsung heroes of Australian football, serving as both a proving ground for young talent and a rehabilitation hub for seasoned players. This weekend’s action across the VFL, WAFL, and SANFL was no exception, offering a mix of thrilling comebacks, heartbreaking injuries, and standout performances that demand attention. Personally, I think these leagues are the lifeblood of the sport, yet they rarely get the spotlight they deserve. Let’s dive into what happened—and what it really means.
The Return of the Cat: Tyson Stengle’s Comeback
Geelong’s 113-point thrashing of Gold Coast was impressive, but what truly stood out was Tyson Stengle’s return. The small forward kicked four goals from 16 disposals, proving he hasn’t lost his touch. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Stengle’s resurgence could reshape Geelong’s forward line in the second half of the season. In my opinion, his speed and goal sense are exactly what the Cats need to break open tight contests. What many people don’t realize is that players like Stengle often thrive in these lower leagues, where they can rebuild confidence without the AFL’s relentless pressure.
Swan’s Injury Woes: A Career at the Crossroads?
Sydney’s 36-point win over Southport was overshadowed by yet another hamstring injury to Taylor Adams. This raises a deeper question: is this the end of the road for the veteran? Hamstring injuries are notoriously tricky, and for a player of Adams’ age, each setback feels more final. From my perspective, this isn’t just about one player—it’s a reminder of how fragile careers can be in this sport. What this really suggests is that clubs need to rethink how they manage older players, especially those with recurring injuries.
Young Guns Stepping Up: The Future is Bright
One thing that immediately stands out from this weekend’s matches is the sheer talent of the younger players. Take Finnbar Maley and Reilly O’Brien for Adelaide, or Sam Marshall for Brisbane—these guys are not just filling spots; they’re dominating. A detail that I find especially interesting is how these leagues serve as a bridge between junior football and the AFL. If you take a step back and think about it, these players are not just developing skills; they’re learning to handle pressure, manage expectations, and lead their teams.
The Ruckmen’s Dilemma: Too Much Talent, Too Few Spots
Peter Ladhams’ VFL performance for Sydney was nothing short of stellar—27 disposals, 27 hitouts, and a goal. Yet, with Brodie Grundy in top form, Ladhams remains on the fringes. This highlights a broader trend in AFL: the ruck position is both critical and overcrowded. Personally, I think this is one of the most underrated challenges in team selection. What many people don’t realize is that ruckmen often have the shortest leash in the AFL, despite their immense impact on the game.
The Bigger Picture: What State Leagues Tell Us About the AFL
If there’s one takeaway from this weekend’s action, it’s that the state leagues are more than just a sideshow. They’re a microcosm of the AFL, reflecting its strengths, weaknesses, and future trends. From injury management to player development, these leagues offer invaluable insights. In my opinion, clubs that invest heavily in their state league affiliates—like Geelong and Adelaide—are setting themselves up for long-term success.
What this weekend really suggests is that the AFL’s future stars are already here, battling it out in the VFL, WAFL, and SANFL. The question is: are we paying enough attention? Personally, I think it’s time we give these leagues—and the players who make them great—the recognition they deserve.
