Footy is back on the Downs with round one of the Senior Men’s Allied Cup and Women’s Toowoomba Toyota Cup kicking off on April 22.
University Cougars and Coolaroo are back in the fold for the Women’s competition, after both sides took time out to rebuild, while the senior men’s competition remains unchanged for 2023.
The two returning sides will be looking for some wins early in the season as Goondiwindi eyes back-to-back premierships after putting an end to the Toowoomba Tigers reign last year. The Tigers will be looking to make up for last year’s grand final loss as they continue to chase down an elusive eighth premiership when they come up against the Hawks in round two.
In the Men’s competition, Coolaroo are chasing momentum following last year’s premiership while South Toowoomba Bombers will be out for revenge when they meet for a grand final rematch in round five. The Warwick Redbacks are emerging as one to watch after a promising start to their pre-season with a convincing win over Jimboomba Redbacks in the Annual Cardinal Cup, their first win in eight years.
Darling Downs Competition and Participation Manager Jana Anderson said Australian Football in the Darling Downs was thriving and she was looking forward to the season ahead.
“Teams in both senior competitions have been working hard on recruiting new talent to bolster their team lists and coaching spots for the new year and clubs have been working tirelessly over the preseason, on and off the field,” she said.
“I believe this will show early in the year with how teams are coming together. It’s going to be a long race to the cup across all age groups this year, with plenty of excitement in between and I’m really looking forward to our special rounds and how the clubs celebrate across the region. I wish all teams the best of luck.”
The 2023 season will see exhibition games for ANZAC Round, Sir Doug Nicholls Round and Pride round where clubs will showcase their dedicated guernseys for the respective special matches.
The AFL Darling Downs Season Launch will be held on April 2 at club education day.
Click here to download the 2023 fixtures.
_2023 DD FIXTURE TILE
