There was no fiercer rivalry in the 90’s than the North Heidelberg v Lalor clashes with multiple D1 grand final battles played out – Both blue collar, working class clubs that have shared many successes over the years but presently, find themselves at very different ends of the NFNL ladder.
This has not stopped what could be the saviour of the U19 division for both clubs as the birth of a combined side that will be known as the BULLDOG BLOODS is now becoming a reality.
The two clubs have come together recently in an attempt to survive the age group for 2019 and following a “CLUB COMBINED” training session on Wednesday night, have a very clear picture of how this will be established for the season ahead.
North Heidelberg President Warren Haysom said “The age group provides the next era of players and potential committee members, without thinking outside of the square for 2019, we could be starting from scratch again in 2020 – This isn’t our long-term plan, we’ve worked hard to establish the team over the past few years but it ensures our current crop can build on something solid for the remainder of the season”.
North Heidelberg Coach, Brent Harvey also threw his support behind the idea saying “Both clubs are very familiar with each other so it hasn’t been a stretch to reach out and discuss the potential. We are at opposite ends of development as far on-field divisions go but, the clubs share the same vision for the growth and playing personal at this level – Done right, It can only be a good thing for both clubs, an even reward”
Lalor has had a resurgence of late yet, only 12 months ago faced a huge task to keep the club a float, Ben Charles, Lalor president is really excited about the prospects “After spending the last 12 months laying the foundations for sustained growth, the under 19 division is a key part of our development. With every effort made over the summer period, we just haven’t been able to get all the guys on the track at one time.
The uncertainty has led to lack of commitment and with this alignment in place for the next 12 months it gives both clubs a chance to build the division brick by brick, player by player during the 2019 season with a team on the field.
Coach Gary Cutler was open to the suggestion right from the very beginning and as a member of both clubs, he can see a huge benefit for Lalor in this partnership “Our kids having access to the games record holder is something that can not be forgotten, Lalor has a heap to gain from this and we are very thankful to North for reaching out – I will be doing everything I can to ensure all of our potential and current players have a place to play and this seems like a great solution”
There is still some minor work to be done and a formalised agreement to be reached between clubs but, we will be seeing the BULLDOG BLOODS in the fixture for 2019 in the NFNL.
Should any boys be interested in playing for what we believe will be a competitive team, please call our Football Operations Manager – Troy Perichon on 0412 515 552.
Watch this space for further details.