Hutchison and Groves to lead the Big V in Perth

The VAFA has announced that both Greg Hutchison and Paul Groves will lead the Big V senior men’s and women’s teams in Perth on July 7 as the VAFA plays the Perth Football League.

After the successful return of representative football last year when the Big V Men’s and Women’s teams both defeated the PFL at Elsternwick Park, the VAFA has re-appointed both coaches for the trip to Perth this year.

Meanwhile, the venue for the return leg has been confirmed, with Claremont Oval to host the representative football double-header on Sunday, July 7. The VAFA last played at the WAFL ground in 1991.

Greg Hutchison, with 96 VFL/AFL games with Melbourne, as well as many highly credentialed roles with Melbourne, Casey, Fremantle, St Kilda, and Old Brighton, brings a wealth of experience and genuine passion for Big V football.

“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to coach the best players in the competition against the Perth FL and to showcase the talent in both leagues,” Hutchison said.

“Representing the Big V is a huge honour, and all involved, coaches, players, support staff have fond memories of the 2023 game and are extremely committed to ensure we represent the VAFA in highest manner by bringing the cup back home.”

Paul Groves, a former St Bedes/Mentone Tigers player, who after an AFLW Premiership with the Western Bulldogs, is now the Head of Sport at St Bernard’s College, while also undertaking an assistant coaching role at Old Melburnians.

“I’m extremely fortunate to be able to coach the women’s team for a second year and build on the fantastic return to rep footy from last year. The willingness of the women to engage fully in a 4-5 week program and represent their clubs in such a fantastic manner makes it a privilege to lead.

“It’s exciting that our VAFA women get the opportunity to take on the Perth Footy League on their home turf and look forward to seeing the club’s nominations early on in the 2024 season.”

The VAFA will soon begin the process of asking Club’s to nominate players for the 2024 representative football program, as well as appointment of coaches for the Big V Premier B – Div 3 Men’s team and Holmesglen Under 19 Showcase match.

2024 VAFA Representative Football Schedule

Saturday 6th July – VAFA (Premier B – Division 3 Men’s) v Bendigo FNL – Elsternwick Park
Saturday 6th July – VAFA Holmesglen Under 19 Showcase – Elsternwick Park
Sunday 7th July – Perth FL v VAFA (William Buck Premier Men’s) – Claremont Oval, Perth
Sunday 7th July – Perth FL v VAFA (William Buck Premier Women’s) – Claremont Oval, Perth