The standalone VFL outfit will spend two days at Longwood as part of its pre-season training camp.
Coburg chief executive Sebastian Spagnuolo said the Lions could not wait to return to Redlegs Stadium.
“Absolutely (it was an easy decision), we loved our weekend away last year,” Spagnuolo said.
“To have a community club 130km away from Melbourne, one without any cricket played on it is quite rare. Everyone at the club are lovely and we have got great respect for them.
“We’re very happy to continue our relationship with Longy.
“We would like to thank Longwood for hosting us and Strathbogie Shire Council for all of their effort that they have put in to welcome us back.”
Longwood president Ricki Shiner said the Kyabram District League outfit was delighted to welcome Coburg back.
“We know we are really lucky to be able to welcome a VFL club down to our small club,” Shiner said.
“We learnt so much as a club last year.
“It was brilliant for our club development and I was actually taken aback by how similar the issues each club has to face. No matter what level your club is at, you still have similar issues to overcome.”
The idea of Coburg first travelling up to Longwood last year was conceived by one Longwood local.
Chris Lalor, mostly known as “Narra”, is a life member at Coburg and a supporter of the Redlegs and he helped form the connection between the two outfits.
“Longwood actually has quite a strong connection with Coburg in that there are a few people who grew up supporting the Lions,” Shiner said.
“One of them is ‘Narra’ and the intraclub match is actually played for the Narra Cup which is a really nice touch.”
Coburg will run a culture session for its players and staff, along with team meetings.
With only weeks until the VFL campaign kicks off, Spagnuolo said this weekend’s camp at Longwood was crucial in its approach to the season.
“It’s quite an important weekend for us,” he said.
“Our leadership group will be decided; we pick our playing squad the following week and it’s our last intraclub before practice matches start.
“Training camps are important for playing groups because you are all together and you share that experience together.”
The intraclub match will also feature two Longwood senior footballers, with one player on each side.
Along with those two lucky players, Avenel product and Euroa footballer Ben Bath will take part as a Coburg training member.
The return of Coburg to the Goulburn Valley coincides with the annual Longwood Beer, Wine and Cider Festival.
The festival kicks off at 2pm following Coburg’s intraclub match.
“With the beer, wine and cider festival on this weekend the town is going to be buzzing,” Shiner said.
“Anyone can come down and watch the footy, it’s free entry and we’ll run a canteen and bar, then if they like they can finish off the day at the festival.”
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