Bogers and the BDSA have thrown their full support behind the Ballarat Red Devils as the club attempts to unify its ranks and secure itself financially.

“I think it’s just crucial (the Red Devils’ continued existence in NPLV1) to the game,” Bogers said.

“Everybody needs a pathway and the NPLV is our pathway.

“The progression has been here already with some of the boys that started off in the BDSA already at the Red Devils (NPLV1 academy).”

While the Red Devils’ academy has a major correlation with the BDSA’s junior ranks, Bogers said Ballarat’s standing in the NPLV gives the sport some much-needed exposure throughout the region.

Sebastopol Vikings offer what Bogers describes as a “middle of the road” pathway for players beyond BDSA level, with the Red Devils another step up.

The Friendship Cup – contested between the Red Devils and the BDSA All

Stars in February – was a pivotal factor in drawing the two associations closer together.

Ballarat’s best were given a chance to test themselves against a legitimate NPLV outfit, with both parties describing the experience as positive.

“The Friendship Cup was a big thing,” Bogers said. “Our relationship has grown. It’s quite good.

“We hope to make that an annual event and we’re always looking for ways to work together. 

“The main thing is that we’re positive about the venture, which we are, and from our point of view we don’t want them to fail. 

“If we can help, we will do whatever we can to help them (because) a town this size deserves an NPLV side.”

michael.pollock@fairfaxmedia.com.au