Sport a driving factor to getting people back together after two tough seasons.

Local sporting clubs across Victoria have been thrilled with the completion of the 2022 winter season, with the last two (2020 and 2021) being highly impacted by COVID-19.

While the AFL was able to have all venues back to total capacity and the grand final being played at the MCG with over 100 thousand seeing Geelong win their first flag in 11 years.

For clubs across North East Victoria, it meant so much more.

Benalla All Blacks (Ovens and King FNL) and Chiltern Swans (Tallangata District FNL) won their inaugural premierships in their respective leagues. In contrast, Wangaratta Magpies in the Ovens & Murray FNL won their first flag since 2006.

Many players and support staff were off celebrating the ultimate glory of winning the premiership; others celebrated the benefits of a season since COVID-19.

Myrtleford Alpine Saints vice president John Pryor said the completion of the 2022 season was more than just playing football and

netball; it was about helping players and supporters with their mental well-being through sport.

“The social connection for netballers and football Is important, so to be able to come back, and be able to reconnect at training and also on field was extremely good to see.” Mr Pryor said.

Mr Pryor said having football and netball back also benefitted the supporters, allowing them to get back to their local sporting clubs to socialise and connect.