North Ballarat is a frontrunner to play in a proposed interstate football competition next year.AFL Victoria, the SANFL and WAFL are taking lead roles in discussions to set up a competition featuring the best teams from each state league.Reigning premiers North Ballarat (VFL), Central Districts (SANFL) and Swan Districts (WAFL) would be first-choice teams.A 16-team structure is believed to be the priority. Under this format, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia would each be representative by four teams, with Tasmania, Queensland, New South Wales and the ACT making up the balance.Pay television network Foxtel is believed to be interested in telecasting the competition, as well as underwriting expenses and sponsorship.North Ballarat chief executive officer Mark Patterson said while aware of the proposal, there had been nothing in writing put to the Selkirk Roosters.He said it was too early to make a fully informed comment on the concept, but admitted it did have merit.Patterson said whether a competition of this kind was able to get off the ground would depend on financial implications for the clubs involved, and the format and timing of matches. He said at worst, teams taking part would need to break even financially."It could not come at an additional cost.'' Patterson said hopefully there would be a financial incentive.He said the club would also have to look carefully at the impact of additional matches on the playing group with regard to when and how often they would be played, and travelling. Patterson said a national competition had the potential to provide many benefits. "It would be a great opportunity to promote the club, City of Ballarat and the region, as well as giving our players the chance on a national stage."The more exposure, the better from a Ballarat point of view," he said.Patterson said although it was only early days, the proposal had a real chance of getting off the ground.