Football Victoria (FV) has confirmed its 13th and final new Junior Boys National Premier League (JBNPL) license for the 2020 season.
FV announced today that Brimbank Stallions FC was the successful applicant, ensuring there will be 48 JBNPL clubs competing next year. Both existing and new clubs must agree to the updated participation license in order to take part in the JBNPL 2020 competition.
The opportunity to award a 13th new license arose from Western United’s decision to delay their entry into the JBNPL system until 2021.
The FV Board, which a fortnight ago approved 12 new licenses, requested the Assessment Panel consider which club would secure the final license. After the Assessment Panel reconvened to consider an additional license, it was decided Brimbank Stallions FC would join the JBNPL.
As previously announced, the other 12 licenses were granted to: Ashburton United SC, Berwick City, Caroline Springs George Cross, Eltham Redbacks FC, Essendon Royals SC, Gippsland FC, Glen Eira FC, Malvern City FC, Mornington SC, Nunawading City FC, Peninsula Strikers FC and Ringwood City FC.
FV CEO Peter Filopoulos thanked all clubs who participated in the extremely competitive process, which demonstrated high demand for limited places.
“The depth and quality of the submissions from our aspirational clubs indicates a genuine desire to improve the standard of junior football right across Victoria,” Mr Filopoulos said.
“Irrespective of the results of this process, FV remains committed to continue working closely with all clubs who have a demonstrated a clear desire to improve their development structures,” Mr Filopoulos said.
“We will regularly review the JBNPL competition structure, which includes the provision to increase the number of eligible clubs after the 2020 season, if it’s warranted. A strong junior base is essential for a strong and sustainable NPL competition of the future,” he concluded.