Two new teams set to be introduced into the VFL in 2018

The Frankston Dolphins will return to the Victorian Football League in 2018 following a one year absence.

The Dolphins were ousted from the VFL at the end of last season due to accumulating debt in excess of one million dollars.

However, the Dolphins have since reduced their debt and now have over 1200 members and will be readmitted to the VFL after presenting a strong submission to the AFL Victoria Board and Executive.

As well as this, former Hawthorn recruiter Gary Buckenara has been appointed as the club's head of football.

“AFL Victoria was always committed to continuing to work with key stakeholders in the region – including Frankston FC – to ensure there would be a state-league presence there into the future,” AFL Victoria chief executive Steven Reaper said.

“The Frankston FC and all involved have shown their commitment to regain their licence in the VFL, establishing a strong strategic plan focused on governance, community engagement, sponsorship and membership that will assist the club and the region into the future

“Frankston FC has worked closely with AFL Victoria and on local relationships that will see the club become a central part of the talent pathway in the region once again, with a strong commitment to playing a broader role in growing the game in the Frankston and Peninsula area.

“The club now has over 1,200 paid members and a timeline in place to remove its remaining debt over coming years, providing a more sustainable VFL presence moving forward – and like all VFL clubs, Frankston FC will need to continue to meet criteria for the continuation of a VFL licence into the future."

Meanwhile, North Melbourne reserves will also join the competition in 2018, as the Kangaroos have a standalone team in the VFL for the first time.

Werribee, who is currently aligned with North Melbourne, will be a stanalone team next season.