The Preston Bullants are set to rise again, with the club confirming the change of name for the 2026 season.
The club, steeped in history and established in 1882, has rotated through names and affiliates since the turn of the century.
From 1996 until 1999, the club was known as the Preston Knights, and from 2000 until 2011, it was known as the Northern Bullants, a name that returned in 2021 for the club's rebirth as a standalone side, following eight years as the Northern Blues, their affiliation with Carlton, in between.
But, fittingly announced on the 30th anniversary (August 20, 1995) of its last match under the well-known name, the Preston Bullants will return.
#WeArePreston pic.twitter.com/BmJyCZQ5vJ
— Preston FC (@PrestonFC_) August 19, 2025
"There has been lots of talk about Preston returning to its historical name, on a ground that is recognised because of its age and historical significance," Neil Howard, President of the Preston Football Club, said.
"Now is the time to stand tall and proud, and dig deep into your pockets to return Preston to a financial position where it can once again take its rightful position amongst the powerhouse clubs of the VFL (formerly VFA) such as Port Melbourne, Williamstown, Sandringham, Coburg, Werribee, and Frankston."
SEE MORE: Preston Bullants president's letter to members
The club had recently conducted an audit into the trading affairs of 2025, and recognised "substantial debts (many hidden and undisclosed to this current board) the club had incurred and not paid through the 2024 and 2025 seasons".
"Previous management were responsible for the 2025 recruitment and 'signing on' of players and coaches, as well as other debts...The obtaining of sponsorship and the management of sponsorship was a decided failure," said Howard.
"I must say, we as a club, have failed the AFL, our coaches, players, you, as members and supporters of this proud Club, and this current Board administration.
"The current board has identified and cleared many debts from 2024 and remained in constant communication with the AFL, while trying to maintain some semblance of structure on and off the field."
The VFL club has been in constant dialogue with AFL headquarters about its viability and sustainability in season 2026.
The Bullants have won two matches in 2025, and have sat in the bottom five for the past five seasons, which has yielded 10 wins.
The club's last premiership was in 1984, when it went back-to-back under favourite son Ray Shaw.
To donate to Preston:
Account name: Preston Football Club Inc
BSB: 633-000
Account number: 141642843
