Sport
15 February, 2026
Naughton back in key league role
EXPERIENCED sports administrator Laura Naughton will return to administering the Loddon Valley Football Netball League under a new structure for football in Central Victoria.
Naughton’s Central Victoria Sports Administration will work with both the LVFNL and the Heathcote District league as they transition into self-management.
AFL Central Victoria has been radically shaken up, with its role in the direct administration of local leagues ended.
It’s a return to football and netball administration for Naughton, who worked for AFL Central Victoria as LVFNL manager for 10 years until mid-2024, when she joined Loddon Shire as recreation officer.
Naughton told the Loddon Herald she would be a central contact point for the Loddon Valley clubs “and help where they need help”.
“Basically, I have a service agreement with the two leagues, and I fulfil their service agreements. The clubs should see no difference in service.
“What they previously received from an AFL Central Victoria point of view they will get the same service – it’s just moved.” In a statement, AFL Central Victoria said: “This new arrangement is designed to strengthen league operations, enhance governance capability and support the long-term sustainability of both competitions as they transition to league self-management.”
Kyle Smith, who took over management of the Loddon Valley league from Naughton in June 2024, has left AFL Central Victoria.
Loddon Valley chairman Richard Hicks said Naughton’s appointment had meant “a seamless and smooth transition and one that all the clubs seem to be appreciating”.
He said Naughton would handle the day-to-day administration of the league and provide the clubs with support.
The league had been required to move to self-management by the end of 2026, and Hicks said it was a case of “do we wait 12 months, or do we jump at an opportunity?
“We found that the opportunity Laura provided gave us a great sense of continuity into the future.”