AWFA poised to introduce night series next season

Officials are hoping to attract 16 men's and women's sides with the knockout tournament flagged to start in March.

Teams from Wagga and Griffith may also be invited to play.

The competition is open to senior and reserve grade teams with AWFA president Mark Leman hoping clubs will rally behind the concept.

"It's a little bit different," Leman said.

"It's another trophy to play for and more football for seniors and reserves.

"I guess the beauty of what we are trying to achieve is what if a reserve grade beat a senior side.

"What if Boomers' seniors played Boomers' reserves and the reserves won?

"It's the bragging rights and the banter and the community can get involved watching different sides during the week when they can't see them on the weekend as they are watching their own club.

"We thought we would try and get our sport at the forefront again."

Matches would be played on Wednesday nights and are likely to be held fortnightly.

A penalty shoot-out would decide drawn matches.

Boomers coach Andrew Grove believes the concept should be thoroughly explored.

"I think it's a good idea," Grove said.

"Most of the guys would be really keen for it.

"It might be hard for some to make it with work and things like that but I think the 16 and 17-year-olds in particular would be looking for more games during the season.

"Having different teams from reserve grade would provide new opposition which would make it interesting as well.

"I think it's great to be trialing these sort of things."

Grove said the association was well placed to host night matches due to recent lighting upgrades.

"Players love night games," he said.

"Most of the grounds around the area are getting lights put up and that makes it easier."

Depending on the numbers of teams, officials believe the knockout would be finished by mid-season.

The association will hold its annual general meeting on December 6.