Seniors

The University Blacks found themselves at the summit of the VAFA in 2014, claiming the Premier Division premiership and cementing their place among the competition’s elite. Following a hard-fought but ultimately unsuccessful 2017 campaign, the Blacks competed in Premier B in 2018, embarking on a sustained period of competitiveness and consistent pursuit of the Club’s highly coveted return to A-Grade.

The near misses of 2018 and 2019 remain etched in the Club’s recent history, with heartbreaking preliminary final losses to Old Carey and Old Scotch respectively — both decided in the final minute of the fourth quarter. While cruel at the time, those moments helped forge a resilient and driven football program.

The challenges that followed — a cancelled 2020 season and a disrupted, stop-start 2021 — would have been enough for many clubs to lose momentum. Instead, the Blacks doubled down. The hunger to return to the top burned brighter than ever, and across the 2021 and 2022 seasons, the Seniors won 26 of their 29 matches, an extraordinary run that spoke volumes about the dedication, talent and standards within the playing group and football department.

The 2022 season was a standout. The Seniors lost just two matches for the entire year, both against eventual Premiers Old Haileybury, while the depth across the program was again highlighted as the Reserves advanced to their Grand Final, following a ladder-leading finish in the COVID-shortened 2021 season.

Since then, the Blacks have continued to evolve. Each season has added another layer to the program, with a strong focus on development, culture and sustainability. That progression carried into 2025, where the Seniors remained competitive in William Buck Premier, finishing 6th with eight wins.

As the Club enters 2026, the sense of opportunity around University Main Oval is unmistakable. Recruiting has been strong, training numbers are high, and the energy around the football program reinforces what many already know — the Blacks are the place to be.

Stability and leadership continue to underpin that momentum. Dale Bower returns for another season at the helm, having guided the Club through some of its most challenging and formative years. His steady hand, combined with a committed and aligned Football Department, has helped build a program capable of sustained success. 

With strong foundations, emerging talent, and a clear focus on the future, the University Blacks head into 2026 poised, motivated, and ready to take the next step in their pursuit of success at the highest level.