The new season kicks off on April 1 with an opening round of matches spread right across the northern states in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sydney, southern NSW and Darwin.
The impressive new South Pine Sports Complex (SPSC) facilities - located in Brendale on the north side of Brisbane – will host regular NEAFL matches in 2017, beginning in Round 1 between Brisbane and Sydney.
The 2017 draw will see the first ever Friday night match in Darwin in a Round 5 blockbuster between NT Thunder and the Sydney Swans at TIO Stadium.
AFL State League and International Manager, Simon Laughton, said the fixture aims to build on the NEAFL’s growing tradition whilst also facilitating the growth of the game in the northern states. “We are pleased the 2017 NEAFL fixture will increase our fans’ football experience with three double headers, and the retention of some of our most popular games during the season,” he said.
“It is an exciting time for the competition with the added alignment of the AFL Academy Series, which will showcase the next generation coming through as the NEAFL continues to grow in standard each year.
“We are confident the 2017 fixture will allow for another competitive season, coming off a thrilling Grand Final between the Giants and Sydney at Blacktown International Sportspark.”
The NEAFL will retain a three-week finals series featuring the top six teams. The season will commence on April 1 and teams will play 18 games over 21 weeks.
Each team will have three byes, with the Grand Final to be held on September 10 or 11.
