The Coates Talent League will kick off its 2023 season on March 18 for girls and March 25 for boys.
The league, formerly known as the NAB League, will feature 12 boys and girls programs from Victoria and one from Tasmania, along with academy programs from New South Wales, Queensland, and Northern Territory, who will compete for part of the season. The Grand Finals for both girls and boys will take place on September 23 and 24. Over the years, the league has produced more AFL and AFLW players than any other league and has been an important development program for emerging coaches, umpires, administrators, and support staff.
Coates Talent League teams will mainly consist of players from the under 18 age group, with a few under 19 players. “Futures” matches, between Coates Talent League programs in Victoria, will feature under 16 and under 17 players. Each program will have a dedicated full-time coach for girls and boys in 2023, and the AFL has invested in increased resources for youth wellbeing, administration, high performance, and medical resources.
The AFL says Coates Talent League coaches will also work closely with AFL Victoria to support community clubs and coaches, strengthening the connection between the talent pathways system and local clubs while providing development opportunities for community-level coaches.
Grant Williams, AFL Head of Talent Pathways, thanked Coates for their support, saying the league will continue to provide a platform for future stars to showcase their skills and develop into the best they can be. Coates CEO, Murray Vitlich, said the league will continue to grow the game and give young athletes the opportunity to achieve their football dreams.
