Miraculous inaugural season has Tasmania Devils daring to dream
The Devils weren't supposed to make the VFL finals. They were barely even supposed to be in the league.
This year has been a season of remarkable achievement for Tasmania's Devils, a club that barely existed a year ago. Despite having no players or uniforms, the team has reached the threshold of VFL finals history. If the Devils secure a win against Geelong this weekend, they will earn a home preliminary final. The team's journey has been nothing short of a miracle, according to Tasmania Devils VFL boss Aaron Pidgeon.
When the club began, it had no players, no uniforms, and struggled to attract top talent from across the country. The AFL itself was hesitant to allow a team to enter the VFL, citing concerns about competitiveness and the club's ability to fund operations. However, Pidgeon refused to accept that the Devils would be playing in the finals their first year.
The Devils' first season has been defined by numerous moments that have set them apart, including a challenging pre-season training camp on Tasmania's west coast, unexpected victories, and a newfound belief in their team's abilities. Despite facing numerous challenges, including high-level negotiations and logistical hurdles, the Devils have proven to be a force to be reckoned with.
Their presence in Tasmania has already made a significant impact, surprising even the coach with its magnitude. As the Devils continue to make strides in the VFL, their journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and the belief in the impossible.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
