THE Muswellbrook Cats' new era in the Black Diamond AFL kicks off in April with an away fixture.
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The committee released the 2017 draw this week, with a number of changes to the competition.
The Cats face Maitland at Max McMahon Oval in round one on April 1 while the club’s women’s side also tackle Maitland in their inaugural match.
Black Diamond AFL football operations manager Garry Burkinshaw said everyone was geared up for a big year.
“The season starts on Saturday, April 1, and concludes on Saturday, September 2,” he said.
“The prestigious Black Diamond Cup boasts six teams while nine sides – including the Singleton Roosters and Cats – will contest the revamped Black Diamond Plate.
“Another 11 outfits have nominated to play in reserve grade.
“The GE women’s competition will consist of 12 teams following the inclusion of Muswellbrook, as well as a second side in Newcastle.
“The Black Diamond Cup and Black Diamond Plate feature a final four in 2017.
“Reserve grade and GE women’s have a final five and final six respectively.”
Burkinshaw said other points of interest included a general bye/wet weather rounds for the Easter and Queen’s Birthday weekends.
“The Black Diamond Cup and GE women’s competition will have a bye for the representative fixtures on May 20,” he added.
“The popular Indigenous Round is scheduled for May 27 and, once again, will see a number of clubs wear specially-designed jumpers for the day.
“The Big Freeze – Newcastle Charity Day takes place at the No 1 Sportsground on June 17, while we’ll celebrate the women’s round on July 15.”
