Tasmania Devils will make their full-time entry into the VFL and VFLW from 2026, three years ahead of their historic AFL debut in 2028.
The announcement, made on Friday, ensures Tasmanian fans can watch their side play across all three regions of the state while offering local players a direct path to the elite level.
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Club chief executive Brendon Gale described the move as a milestone moment. “Our entry into the VFL and VFLW is an exciting and strategic step in the development of Tasmania Football Club. It marks the start of our on-field journey and plays a crucial role in laying the foundations for our AFL and AFLW teams in 2028,” Gale said in a statement.
Golden ticket for young players
Alongside the VFL commitment, the Devils will introduce a so-called ‘golden ticket’ program that guarantees rookie list spots for Tasmanian players. At least two positions will be reserved across the 2026 and 2027 seasons, with the possibility of up to four.
“That opportunity doesn’t exist anywhere else in the country, and it sends a strong message: if you’re good enough and dedicated enough, Tasmania is the place to be,” Gale said.
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The return ends a near two-decade absence from the VFL, with Tasmania last competing in 2008. Their inclusion, alongside St Kilda’s new reserves side, is set to expand the league to 23 teams in 2026.
Aaron Pidgeon, formerly North Melbourne’s Head of Tasmania, has been appointed to oversee the Devils’ VFL and VFLW football programs as the state begins shaping its AFL future on home soil.