A long-running saga in country women's football is set to close as a central Victorian team that had been left without a competition will now be allowed to play in 2026.

AFL chief operating officer Tom Harley insists the league's polarising Opening Round is here to stay, declaring it crucial to the competition's growth in northern markets.

Carlton star Jacob Weitering has received some good news, with the Blues labelling their injured vice-captain as a "good chance" to feature in opening round.

Winning Victoria coach Chris Scott and his Western Australia counterpart Dean Cox call for State of Origin to be played every year after the concept's stunning return in Perth. 

Victoria holds off a spirited WA side to win the first Aussie rules State of Origin clash for 27 years, though the game is marred by a serious injury to Carlton star Jacob Weitering.

Former Essendon captain Dyson Heppell has spoken about the unhealthy relationship he had with food early in his career. 

After a break of more than a quarter of a century, AFL State of Origin returns in Perth tomorrow with a battle between two proud football states, Western Australia and Victoria. 

Channel Nine has confirmed it has received legal costs from former AFL player and sports presenter Warren Tredrea, who was ordered to pay $149,000 to his ex-employer.

Former AFL player Peter Dean is recovering in hospital after he sustained serious head and facial injuries in an alleged assault at Albury on the New South Wales Victorian border. 

Former footballer Warren Tredrea has an imminent deadline to pay $149,000 to his former employer, Channel Nine, following a failed appeal against an unfair dismissal case.