WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country's three representative squads converge on Bendigo this weekend hoping to defend country football's proud reputation.
The Energy Safe Victoria Country U19s, and WorkSafe AFL Victoria Country No.1 and No.2 teams, take on representative sides from the Victorian Amateur Football Association in three matches that promise to be enthralling contests.
The past four games between Vic Country No.1 and the VAFA Seniors have been decided by less than six points, a statistic that speaks of the desire and passion of the players and coaches involved.
The two rivals first took on one another in the early 80s and since 1993 have participated in a bi-annual clash that has a remarkable history of going to down to the wire.
The value of representative football cannot be underestimated, offering players and coaches the chance to test their skills against the very best.
It also creates enduring friendships that extend throughout the football community and provides a memorable experience that will remain long after the players hang up their boots.
And while bragging rights between the bush and the burbs hinge on the premier match at 4.05pm, the two curtain raiser games provide a similar opportunity for the players involved.
There continues to be stunning success stories emerge from the Under 19s clash each year, with a number of players going on to play VFL and even AFL football.
Fremantle's Matt Taberner was standout in this match only a few years ago and is now a regular in Ross Lyon's side, a team that is many experts' tip for the premiership.
There are also several players who have gone on to play VFL football and the interest from recruiting staff at both state-league and AFL level is always considerably high.
The Vic Country No.2 team was also able to secure a comfortable victory last year, a result that is sure to have the VAFA side eager for revenge.
The Vic Country 2 v VAFA (Prem B –Div 4) clash highlights the incredible talent of players who may not be playing in the highest grade of the VAFA or in one of country Victoria's premier competitions but still boast significant ability.
Today also represents a significant occasion for the umpires charged with officiating the three matches and we congratulate them on being selected to do so.
We would like to offer our sincere gratitude to the administrators, support staff and volunteers who help make today possible.
And finally, a big thank you to AFL Central Victoria for hosting today's games, and our major partner in WorkSafe.
Visit www.aflvic.com.au for a live stream of all three matches, or follow @aflvic on twitter for regular score updates.