The response varies at each club, however, for many country clubs that answer is becoming bleaker by each passing season.
“We are really struggling at the moment.”
And there are a range of factors for such a response.
It is hard to narrow down an exact reason for teenagers these days for not wanting to lace up their boots or don their town's colours come the start of the season.
But there is no denying that playing football can offer so many benefits for those that partake.
One of many positives that come to mind is remaining fit and active, but if you look deeper, the role football clubs play on teenagers in the community is immense.
Clubs act as an outlet for some and create a sense of belonging for many.
Club members welcome you with open arms, help teach valuable life values and provide opportunities that are limitless.
But most importantly, friendships are born and long-lasting memories are made.
Those who have grown up in a small country community know firsthand how crucial this environment is and how much football clubs are the heart and soul of communities.
And unlike the football clubs based in the Picola and District Football Netball League and Murray Football League, not all clubs and leagues have AFL exports for the next generation to look up to.
It speaks volume of the local leagues that a host of stars playing in the country's national competition have started their careers in the Moira Shire region.
Players like Esava Ratugolea (Yarroweyah and Cobram), Tom Clurey (Katamatite), Tom Hawkins (Finley), draftee Lachie Ash (Katandra) and recent retiree Sam Wright (Katamatite) all cut their teeth in country football clubs.
The chance to play AFL football is no doubt a lucrative benefit to playing football, but if there is one thing this extensive list of exports from the region showcases, is that local clubs have provided an exceptional platform for juniors.
And it is unfortunate that some of the clubs who helped nurture and grow the talented list above are now struggling to field junior sides for the coming season.
Because if they had the chance to continue to teach and develop junior players, they would certainly unearth the next big name.
But reaching the heights of professional football is not the be all end all either, it is just important to point out the impact of the region's football clubs.
What is crucial to highlight is the lack of numbers at these junior clubs and the fact that they need enthusiastic youngsters from all walks of life to enter their doors.
