AFL North Coast Juniors president Tony Linnett is buoyant about the development of the competition, with another strong year expected.

“We are always looking to expand the league into new areas to take advantage of the development work over the last few years,” Linnett said.

“This year will see the introduction of Grafton and Lower Clarence sides to the junior competition.”

The competition will also change to an odd-age under-13s and under-15s format, to complement the non-competitive age groups that run from Auskick to under-11s.

Given the changes, the focus, according to Linnett, is still on participation.

“We believe we have a strong product, but the most important thing is that youngsters play sport,” he said.

“The league caters for new players and families, but also there is a pathway for talented individuals to further their skills and aim towards representative football.”

More information on registration days can be found by calling the AFL North Coast hotline on 66 526560 or visiting www.aflnorthcoast.com.au.

Registration days:

Coffs Swans JAFC

Saturday, February 20 - 10.30am-12.30pm; Sunday, February 28, 11.30am-1.30pm. Jetty Oval, Orlando St. Contact Jason Phillips, 0408 021 252.

Bellingen JAFC

Sunday, February 21 - 11am-1pm. Burdett Park, Waterfall Way, Fernmount. Contact Brett Bennett, 0438 076 604.

Nambucca Valley Lions JAFC

Contact Mick Boyd, 6568 7803 or 0428 687 803.

Sawtell Saints JAFC

Sunday, February 21 - 11am-1pm. Richardson Park.

Saturday, February 27 - Bunnings barbecue. Contact Mat Perks, 0412 860 213

Northern Beaches JAFC

Saturday, February 20 and Saturday, February 27 - 10am-2.30pm. Centennial Oval, Woolgoolga. Contact Lyn MacDonald, 0407 426 017.

North Coffs Kangaroos JAFC

Sunday, February 21 - 10.30am-12.30pm; Saturday, February 27 - 12.30pm-2.30pm. Jetty Foreshores (opposite railway station). Contact Tim Joseph, 0419 005 454.