A landmark merger between a senior and junior AFL club is expected to bring players, coaches and supporters together under one vision.
The Caloundra Football AFL Club and the Caloundra Junior Football AFL Club have joined forces, creating a united entity that should foster player development from grassroots to senior competition.
Senior club president David Moles said the merger was a milestone for the code in the region.
“For decades, both the senior and junior clubs have worked tirelessly to provide opportunities for players of all ages,” he said.
“By merging, we create a clear pathway from Auskick through to senior AFL, with one united vision, one culture and one home for our players, members and supporters.”
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The Caloundra Football AFL Club was established in 1973 and quickly became a respected name in the AFL Sunshine Coast competition.
The club has celebrated multiple senior premierships, including its historic back-to-back wins in the early 2000s. The club has also produced a number of players who represented Queensland and went on to higher levels.
The junior club, formed in 1989, has nurtured generations of young players, with strong representation across all age groups, including girls’ competitions.
The club has earned a reputation for inclusivity and development, winning accolades for its dedication to growing the game.
Junior club president Travis Lloyd said the merger reflected the forward-thinking approach outlined in a recently completed strategic plan.
“This is about more than just combining resources, it’s about creating a club that is sustainable and future-focused,” he said.
“Our strategic plan highlights the importance of long-term player development, community engagement and modern facilities. The merger ensures that every player, from their first Auskick session to senior level, can thrive under the same banner.”
One of the elements of the new structure is the alignment of all age groups and programs, from juniors and youth girls to senior men’s and women’s teams. The unified model is set to promote a stronger club culture, shared values and mentoring between age groups and genders. It’s expected to ensure a consistent coaching philosophy and a streamlined experience for players and families.
The strategic plan, developed with input from both committees, focuses on key areas including: player pathway, with a seamless transition from junior to senior football;Â community engagement, by strengthening ties with local schools, businesses and families; club facilities, with investment in improved clubrooms, training equipment and grounds; and volunteer and member support, by building a culture that recognises and values the contributions of volunteers and members.
The merged club will retain the Caloundra Panthers name, with pre-season training for juniors and seniors set to start later this year.
