Jake Bridges will lead the Ballarat Football League under-23 interleague squad this season.
As assistant coach the past two seasons under Anthony Koutoufides, Bridges now steps up into the head role ahead of the annual clash against the Hampden league.
Bridges’ deep connection to representative football stretches back to his junior playing days, where he represented the league after starting his career at North Ballarat in the early 1990s.
He went on to finish his junior football at North before moving to Redan for senior football and also spent time with the Greater Western Victoria Rebels and in the Victorian Football League system.
Off field, through a decade at Leading Teams, he developed a strong foundation in leadership and culture, which transitioned into a successful coaching career.
After a stint assisting at Buninyong, he was appointed East Point coach in 2017, leading the club to back-to-back BFL premierships in 2018 and 2019.
Bridges said his passion for development and connection within the game were key drivers behind his desire to take on the Interleague role.
“I love being around people who want to get better,”he said. “This program brings together the best young players across the league and gives them a chance to test themselves at a higher
level.
“I’m excited to help those who want to be here – players who are driven to improve.”
Beyond the on-field opportunities, Jake highlighted the deeper importance of community and connection.
“Through Covid, I realised just how important connection is. Winning is great, but the relationships we build through footy — the people we play with and against — they’re what really matters.
The interleague concept has so much history in the BFNL.
“”It’s not just about the now – it’s uncles, brothers, grandfathers who’ve worn the jumper too.
With there being so much more to life than footy, this is about belonging and community.”
As planning begins for the 2025 campaign, Jake is energised by the quality of talent available and the players’ enthusiasm. Training for nominated players begins in June.
“If you look at who’s eligible and how many are putting their hands up to play, it’s just so exciting. Watching how driven these young men are – it’s a credit to them and the clubs they come from.”
