Having commenced pre-season training in January, Eastside is looking strong ahead of the first round on Saturday April 22, with coaches Cameran Kossack and Kym Bracken saying teams were fine tuning skills.

"We are working on developing our up and coming younger players, getting a strong group of committed players and building a strong culture and environment around the Club," they said.

"We are still looking for players for both our teams. So if anyone is wanting to join a team head on over to our Facebook Page (Eastside FC) and get the training times."

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In 2021 the men's team finished the season with two wins and a draw, while the women's made it to the preliminary final but fell short of a grand final berth.

"Our men's are looking to improve on last year and make a push towards the final, We've recruited a few key players this year which should hopefully bolster the team.

"We had the youngest team in the competition last year with many 15 -17 year olds playing, which is a great development pathway for our younger lads as they now have a season under their belt.

"Our women's are looking to improve on last year's effort and push for a third grand final appearance in the BRFLW. They'll be looking to strengthen their team with more old and new players coming to the club who'll bring plenty of experience and excitement."

Coaches said AFL was good to keep fit, have fun and to meet new people.

"In the Territory everyone gives everything ago but with AFL there's just that passion for it. Maybe because it's our national sport."

Eastside is one of the founding football clubs of Katherine, entering into the inaugural competition in 1988. The women's team entered into the inaugural BRFLW competition in 2018.

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