The longest wait (might be) over for country and suburban players in the home of Australian football

Buchan Football Club president Mathew Whelan smiles

Sick of uncertainty, reigning Warrnambool and District Football Netball League premier Kolora-Noorat just wants to know if it can belatedly defend its title.

The last grand final was 2019.

“The past two years there’s been no reward, no closure,” new club president Martin Wynd told ABC Sport.

“Whether you win or lose, you want to know whether you’re good enough.”

There is excitement and trepidation within Victorian clubs like Kolora-Noorat preparing for season 2022.

No-one can accurately read the pulse of the game after two years of interrupted, incomplete competitions at country, suburban, amateur and under-age level.

Umpire shortages and volunteer stress are widespread.

Author: Ivan Robinson