SSA Announces Key Updates to Team Vic Australian Football Pathway
School Sport Australia (SSA) has revealed significant changes to its Australian Football representative pathway, set to take effect from 2026. These updates aim to enhance player development and align more closely with national sporting structures.
A key change will see the introduction of the Australian Football 14 Years & Under National Championship. This new championship will replace the current 15 Years & Under event, bringing SSA's pathway into direct alignment with the AFL's representative structure, which includes 16 Years & Under and 18 Years & Under National Championships.
Furthermore, the 12 Years & Under Championship will adopt modified AFL playing conditions to ensure consistency with recently introduced school and community-level formats. These modifications include:
- Reducing the number of players on the field from 18 to 15.
- Shortening the playing field to 130 metres.
- Installing temporary goals positioned 10 metres apart at both ends.
These adjustments are designed to provide a more consistent and progressive development pathway for young Australian Rules footballers across the country.
