Club Connect Club of the Month – June

The VAFA is delighted to announce the Club Connect Club of the Month winner for June is Westbourne Grammarians Football Club, recognised for their strong display of the VAFA’s core value of Community and Inclusivity.  

Throughout the season, Westbourne Grammarians has embraced initiatives that strengthen the wellbeing, inclusion and development of its members. The club proudly hosted a BCNA Pink Lady function, delivered its first-ever Drag Bingo event, actively engaging with the TAC Club Rewards Program, and has continued to champion mental health and wellbeing. Westbourne was the first VAFA club to complete a Tackle Your Feelings Foundation session in March 2026 and, following exceptional engagement, recently undertook the Driving Thriving elective to further support its players, coaches and volunteers. 

The club also celebrated the 2026 First Nations Round with a unique Indigenous-designed jumper that has now become a permanent part of the club’s identity, reflecting its commitment to inclusion and respect. Westbourne is also an AFL-recognised Women & Girls Chartered Club, demonstrating its commitment to growing opportunities for women and girls not only within the club but across the broader community through leadership, participation and inclusive club practices. 

Beyond its own club, Westbourne has invested heavily in the future of community football by building a strong partnership with Newport Junior Football Club through shared training sessions, player mentoring and coaching support, creating a clear pathway for junior footballers into the VAFA. The successful establishment of a women’s Under 19s program, alongside two thriving women’s teams, further demonstrates the club’s long-term vision for sustainable player development. 

Working collaboratively with the VAFA on competition pathways, fixtures, club development and strategic growth, Westbourne Grammarians continues to set an outstanding example of what a progressive community football club can achieve. The VAFA congratulates everyone at Westbourne Grammarians Football Club on this well-deserved recognition. 

Westbourne Grammarians Football Club will receive a $150 credit courtesy of Club Connect to restock their canteen/drinks fridge.  

“We’re incredibly proud to receive this recognition, particularly as it’s the first time Westbourne Grammarians Football Club has been named VAFA Club Connect Club of the Month. This award belongs to every player, coach, volunteer, committee member, sponsor and supporter who contributes to making our club such a welcoming, inclusive and community-focused environment. It reflects the culture we’ve worked hard to build. One that values connection, wellbeing and creating opportunities for everyone to belong both on and off the field.” said Laura Houston Club President. 

Another club nominated by VAFA Management in June is University Blacks Football Club for its outstanding commitment to community football and club growth. 

Throughout 2026, the club has continued to prioritise initiatives that foster an inclusive and supportive environment for its members. University Blacks proudly hosted its annual Uni Pink BCNA round, celebrated Indigenous Round, and has once again committed to the VAFA’s Tackle Your Feelings program, reinforcing the club’s ongoing focus on mental health and wellbeing. 

The club has also strengthened its women’s football pathway through the successful establishment of a women’s development team, creating a clear progression into senior women’s football. Beyond the field, University Blacks has worked tirelessly to build stronger connections with the wider university community, encouraging students to participate in community sport and club life. 

With five competitive men’s and women’s teams enjoying strong on-field success, and through its continued collaboration with the VAFA on pathways, fixturing and competition development, University Blacks continues to set an outstanding standard both on and off the field. 

If you believe your club has demonstrated the values of the VAFA and would like to share the great work happening at your club, please email Darren Flanigan at [email protected]