Ardmona Football Netball Club recently released a statement advising of its decision against returning to competition in 2024, extending its recess by another year.
The club initially pulled the pin in March 2022, voicing intentions to grace the field in 2023.
However, the most recent season came and went without the Bush Cats’ presence and it appears next year will hold the same fate.
“It is with a very heavy heart that the committee of Ardmona Football Netball Club have made the decision with advice from the KDL, AFL GM and key stakeholders to make an application to extend our recess for the 2024 season,” the statement read.
“Our return to competition will be a challenge and we are under no illusions that there is a lot of work to be done.
“We’ve got some very progressive people involved in the club, who are very driven and motivated to excel in bringing the AFNC back for the 2025 season.
“We have a brand-new culture, mission, purpose, and vision and will be improving the club from all angles.”
The statement went on to explain the behind-the-scenes work done during the time spent off the park.
It cited “enormous inroads” into improvements across the board, with more to come before the Bush Cats hit the footy oval and netball court in competition once again.
“We will be working around the clock for the remainder of 2023 and 2024 to improve our facilities, restructure our committee, and plan for the future,” it read.
“Our plan for the future presents a high-level view of our strategic priorities and is supported by a very well developed action plan that will continue to see the club grow and improve and we will be working with key stakeholders to provide additional support with respect to governance, guidance, and other requirements in getting the club back onto its feet.
“We look forward to continuing to work hard for the reboot of the AFNC, and future growth and development of the club and ensuring that our proud 103-year history within our community continues for many, many more years to come.”
In addition to the information surrounding the recess extension, Ardmona issued a call to arms for support and helping hands, while also acknowledging those who have played their part in the past few months.
