Tasmania’s VFL team is gearing up for a significant return to the competition, a move that hasn’t been seen since 2008. The club, affectionately known as the Devils, has meticulously built its playing list with a clear vision: to be a finals contender by 2026. This ambitious goal is being underpinned by a three-pronged strategy that focuses on attracting experienced local talent back to the state, nurturing the existing pool of Tasmanian footballers, and drawing in promising players from the mainland.
Coach Jeromey Webberley articulated the club’s aspirational program, stating, “We want to make our program very aspirational. We want people to believe they can be on our AFL list in 2028 or they can further advance their footy with our program.” This forward-thinking approach is central to their recruitment and development strategy.
A crucial element in the Devils’ list build has been the promise of a direct pathway to the state’s future AFL team. Tasmania has committed to offering at least two “golden tickets” – spots on the inaugural AFL list – to players who impress in the VFL program over the next two years. This incentive has proven to be a significant drawcard, with several players citing it as a key factor in their decision to join the club. Crucially, these players have arrived with the right mindset, ready to fully immerse themselves in a program that prioritises immediate competitiveness and development.
“I think the big thing is we want to be extremely competitive from day one, we’re not shying away from that,” Webberley emphasised. “And then it’s about enhancement of individuals both on and off the field and playing with our own identity and our own brand and development across the board.”
Webberley’s deep understanding of Tasmanian football is a significant asset. Having previously coached the club’s U18 program, he has a strong connection with many of the younger players, possessing invaluable insights into their capabilities and character. This intimate knowledge has been instrumental in the club’s list management decisions. Furthermore, his extensive network within community football clubs across Tasmania ensures a robust and clear pathway for dedicated local footballers, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship that supports the growth of the sport statewide.
“We want to continue promoting and growing our club and continuing to build correctly as we build towards (the AFL team in) 2028,” Webberley stated. “We’ve leant into (state pride): we want to link into our history and understand where we have come from – we’ve got representatives from every region of Tassie – but we also want to create our own fresh identity.”
Leadership and AFL Experience
The foundation of the Devils’ leadership group has been solidified by the early marquee signings of vice-captain Jye Menzie and captain Robbie Fox. Their presence provides a clear vision and a strong selling point for the club. Complementing their leadership are Hugh Dixon, Caleb Mitchell, and Brad Cox-Goodyer. The inclusion of Dixon, Mitchell, Cameron Owen, and Geordie Payne brings valuable AFL experience to the squad.
Webberley expressed his admiration for these former AFL players: “They’ve been awesome. The one thing I’ve been really impressed with is their commitment to want to give back and be really good players and chase that golden ticket opportunity our club has presented but also, they’re here for the right reasons. Their investment, communications, standards and interaction has been fantastic.”
This influx of experienced talent offers a unique opportunity for local Tasmanian footballers: “It’s a great stepping stone for local Tasmanians who can now stay at home and pursue footy at the next level surrounded by former AFL players which is something people in our state have never had for a period of time.”
Emerging Talent and New Signings
Beyond the former AFL-listed players, the Devils’ list features other notable names. Southport defender Nick Williams, overlooked draftees Jack Miller and Rory Wright, and Jack Callinan – son of former Adelaide Crow Ian – are all set to make their mark.
Geordie Payne, who joins Tasmania after a stint at North Melbourne where he played three games, is expected to bring his characteristic aggression and intensity to the forward line. Webberley anticipates Payne will be a key figure, stating, “I think we can expect Geordie Payne to bring what he always does in terms of aggression and physicality and intensity he brings to the game. We’re really excited to have him in Tassie colours again and hopefully he can become a real leader of the team like he was through our U18s campaign a couple of years ago.”
A Palpable Buzz in the Apple Isle
The excitement surrounding Tasmania’s VFL return is palpable, with anticipation reaching fever pitch ahead of their first game on March 21st against Coburg. The Devils are set to bring VFL action to Hobart, Launceston, and Penguin throughout the season, with a home Anzac Day clash also a significant fixture.
“The excitement for what’s to come within Tasmania is ridiculous,” Webberley remarked. “You’re getting stopped in the streets to talk about footy all the time and it’s almost like the VFL program is being treated like a bit of an AFL program. The state is so keen to get footy back here, the state is so keen to be represented.”
East Fremantle recruit Jed Hagan has been highlighted by Webberley, alongside Dixon and Menzie, as a standout performer during pre-season. Hagan, who was a strong draft prospect four years ago, has impressed with his professionalism and decision-making. “He’s been really impressive across the course of pre-season. He’s been really professional, he runs really well, he makes great decisions with the footy so we’re excited about what he’s going to deliver.”
