The influx of 11 line-ups has lifted the tally to 137 teams.

An addition is a girls-only competition at under-12 level to complement the rapidly expanding youth girls competition.

A new-look BJFL board is led by Mark O'Farrell as president.

The board includes three newcomers and three incumbent.

A star defender with Sandhurst Football Club for many seasons, O'Farrell said he was keen to continue to build on the previous boards forecasts and projections.

A major focus besides growth of the competition is retention of under-16 players and providing pathways to senior leagues across the region.

The first three weeks of the BJFL season will be under a grading format before the final draw is released.

This year the BJFL has combined resources with AFLCV commission in supporting Norm Sheahan in a new role as AFLCV junior operations manager . 

There are 22 clubs represented in the Bendigo Junior Football League.

"With 4000 members, 30 ovals, umpires, supporters, matchday documentation and administration to be overseen on a weekly basis, it is essential to use the resources of the AFLCV commission offices in Mundy Street," Sheahan said.

"We couldn’t achieve this if it wasn’t for the fantastic support of all our sponsors, in particular long-term major sponsor Bendigo Bank and  new naming sponsor Cavalier Homes Bendigo.

The BJFL has aligned its Hazeldene’s Development Squad with the new AFLCV Elite football Academy managed by AFL Victoria Country football development managers Rick Coburn and Tony McNamara.

If you are interested in playing football in the Bendigo Junior Football league this year it is not too late to join a team.

There is a competition suitable for players of all levels and experience.

Visit the BJFL website for information for clubs that are still looking for players, or contact Amy Kenyon on 5434 2400 at the AFLCV office in Mundy Street, Bendigo.