The Tasmania Devils are putting an offer out that could land prospects on an AFL and AFLW list ahead of the club's entry to the top-flight competition.
The Devils have opened "expressions of interests" for athletes to trial for the inaugural VFL and VFLW squads for 2026.
The soon-to-be AFL club will guarantee two rookie spots from those participating in the state league side, and could increase that number to four.
"Tasmania Football Club is inviting expressions of interest from athletes wanting to trial for its inaugural VFL and VFLW squads ahead of the 2026 season," the statement read.
"As Tasmania makes its highly anticipated return to the VFL and debuts in the VFLW, this is a rare opportunity for athletes to be a part of a history-making journey.
"Our upcoming trial days are encouraging attendance not only from experienced footballers, but also talented athletes from other sports who believe they have the physical ability, athleticism, and mindset to transition into elite football. If you feel like you have the drive and skills, this is your chance to step into a new challenge.
"The Club has introduced a ‘golden ticket' pathway for aspiring AFL and AFLW players, guaranteeing at least two rookie list spots for those participating in the VFL and VFLW programs across 2026 and 2027, with the potential for up to four.
"We are looking for driven, team-first athletes ready to help shape a competitive, community-connected football program. Trials will be held across Tasmania, with accessibility for local and interstate hopefuls alike."Tasmania have chosen homegrown coaching talent and former Richmond Tigers midfielder Jeromey Webberley as the senior coach for the VFL side.
Collingwood icon Nathan Buckley is still favoured for the AFL role, and is currently in dialogue with Devils CEO Brendon Gale about the opportunity.
"Now I've lurched in the Tassie process – you don't want to give blow-by-blows because you're respectful of the other side absolutely.
"I've determined that I'd love to coach again. If Tassie feels that I'm a fit, then I'll be there, but that's up to them to work out. Beyond that, if that doesn't work out, then I go back to the drawing board."
Delisted Essendon forward Jye Menzie has also been offered a VFL offer for next year.
"We've put a contract in front of him. He's got to work through that process," Tasmania Devils list strategist lead Todd Patterson told SEN.
"He's one of many (we're targeting). There's a little bit to it as well. It's almost first-in, first-served with these contracts. Only so much can go around.
"So we're just waiting for the phone to ring and get some good news. I think we're not far away. In the next seven to 10 days, a few things will start to fall in place.
"It's just that waiting game."
Sydney's Robbie Fox is also a player of interest.
Trial dates across Tasmania
Monday 29 September (evening, North)
Wednesday 1 October (evening, South)
Thursday 2 October (evening, North West)
To be considered, complete the expression of interest form here: https://forms.office.com/r/VYwPfSD6BH. Shortlisted athletes will be contacted with further trial details.
Registrations close 24 September.
