EFNL MEDIA RELEASE: Doncaster Football Club to Enter Recess for 2025 Season, Plans to Rebuild for 2026 Return

The Eastern Football Netball League (EFNL) and Doncaster Football Club regret to announce that the Doncaster Football Club will enter a recess for the 2025 season. This difficult decision has been made after extensive discussions with the club’s leadership, players, and the EFNL, with a focus on ensuring the club’s long-term sustainability and success.

Doncaster Football Club has a proud history and remains a valued part of the EFNL community. Considering recent player personnel challenges, the club will take this opportunity to regroup, rebuild, and establish a new committee with the support of the EFNL. This strategic reset will enable the club to strengthen its support group and re-enter the competition in 2026 in Division 4. The club will field a netball team in 2025.

EFNL CEO Jy Bond expressed his support for the club’s efforts to rebuild:

“Doncaster Football Club is an important part of our league, with a rich history, one we are willing to retain and work for, and while this decision is disappointing, it is a necessary step towards ensuring a strong and competitive future. The EFNL will work closely with Doncaster to assist in the formation of a new committee and support their re-entry in 2026."

Bond would also like to applaud the support of the EFNL community and our clubs in recent weeks.

"It has been heartening to see our fellow clubs rally around Doncaster Football Club."

During this period, the EFNL will work with the Doncaster Football Club in recruiting committee members, engaging with the local community, and re-establishing a sustainable football program. The league remains committed to assisting the club in every way possible to facilitate a return to competition.

Doncaster Football Club President Sean O’Gorman reaffirmed the club’s commitment to returning stronger in 2026:

“While stepping away from competition for a season is not ideal, we are confident that this reset will allow us to build a sustainable future. We encourage all past and present players, members, and supporters to stay engaged as we work towards our return. We also want to engage with our junior club to ensure future pathways for a sustainable future.”

First Division will now have a bye for the remainder of the season. Further updates on the division structure in 2026 will be communicated in due course. The club’s progress will be provided throughout 2025. The EFNL encourages anyone interested in supporting Doncaster Football Club’s revival to get in touch with the club or the league directly.

For all inquiries, please contact: Info@efnl.org.au