Reigning premier Hepburn will begin its senior football title defence against Waubra, which should test the Burras first up.

There has been plenty of hype about big-name recruiting in the CHFL.

Stay tuned this week as The Courier's CHFL expert Tim O'Connor gives you thr opening week's news and selections as they unfold.

North Ballarat Roosters showed promise in their thrilling opener against Collingwood in the Victorian Football League, which you can read about HERE.

North Ballarat Rebels also launched their TAC Cup season in Camperdown with a tough match-up against Geelong.

Ballarat Football League fans must wait another week for their beloved clubs to hit the field. Clubs are now putting the finishing touches on their pre-seasons.

It is not all about football this week. In case you missed it, Mount Clear fended off Brown Hill in an epic four-day cricket grand final battle. STORY HERE.