Jonathan Brown urges AFL to keep country footballers at front of mind after interleague scrap

The Hampden league coach told The Standard it was vital rural-based players weren't forgotten without interleague.

Brown, a three-time Brisbane Lions premiership player, began his career at South Warrnambool.

"I hope there's some sort of alternative to showcase country talent. There could be games as curtain-raisers for AFL matches," Brown said.

"I'd be disappointed if there were no opportunities for country players and people to have a crack.

"City people can't get their heads around the fact that kids from the country might just be happy doing their apprenticeship back home.

"I don't think country kids get the same opportunities as those in metropolitan areas all the time.

"Interleague is a vehicle to showcase talent in the country."

Brown was proud of his three-year stint as coach, in which the Hampden league rose to sixth in the state.

"We're proud of the legacy and the coaches that I worked with were just first-class," Brown said.

"They put a plan in place to make it easier for the players and a more enjoyable place for the players.

"You also get the opportunity to perform at a high standard and to get some attention as a strong league.

"I really enjoyed it."

The 38-year-old, who recently returned to Australia after holidaying in the United States, said he was unsure of AFL Victoria's motivation in scrapping the community championships.

"I'll need to do some more digging myself but it's disappointing," Brown said.

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