By Nicholas Duck
The Drouin Football and Netball Clubs are exploring the idea of a potential move to the West Gippsland Football Netball Competition - with a catch.
Having previously applied for entry to the league in 2018 before ultimately staying in the Gippsland League, the Hawks have kept an eye on the competition since and have now opened discussions regarding a possible transfer.
However, they would only be open to pursuing the idea should West Gippsland adopt a multi-tier structure, whether in the form of divisions or conferences.
The Hawks formerly competed in a previous incarnation of the West Gippsland competition up until 2005 when they crossed over.
The current incarnation of West Gippsland is a one-tier league with 11 clubs, meaning they would likely need an influx of new clubs to implement a system that would satisfy Drouin enough to pursue a move.
Drouin Football Club president Luke Gilbert said a move was appealing largely on the basis of logistics, citing heavy travel to places like Sale, Maffra and Bairnsdale as a challenge, particularly in terms of recruiting players living closer to Melbourne.
"There's always been a curiosity about returning (to West Gippsland)," he said.
"Logistically it would make sense for us but we're always going to weigh up our options and see what's best for us."
However, Mr Gilbert said right now Drouin were just doing their due diligence, finding out the facts and figuring out what their options might look like, adding that there were plenty of reasons to stay in their current league too.
"We're not fully committed to jumping ship but we also need to get the information so we can present that to our members and make the best decision for Drouin."
The Hawks have received the go-ahead from Gippsland League to begin discussions, a requirement under updated AFL Victoria rules surrounding clubs moving leagues, and will sit down to speak to West Gippsland later this week.
Mr Gilbert will be joined by representatives from the Drouin Netball Club at the talks as he emphasised the importance of both clubs being all in should they decide to take the next step.
"They have a list of pros and cons for this as well. We need to all be on the same page before we decide anything."
The Hawks have endured a tough year on the football field this year, compounded by being unable to play at the Drouin Recreation Reserve due to ongoing works.
Their netball teams have remained fairly successful, with their A grade side once again in strong contention for finals.