With only days to spare before Father Christmas brings presents to every good boy and girl around the world, Picola District League president Shane Railton thought he would put on the Santa Claus attire and deliver the 2025 fixture.
Railton announced the fixture on Sunday night.
Next year’s season will begin with a full round — unlike in 2024 when only two fixtures were scheduled — on April 5.
Returning club Dookie will be welcomed back into the Picola District League with a home clash against grand finalist Katandra in round one.
Round three will see all clubs bar two enjoy a bye on the Easter weekend, with Tocumwal set to host Berrigan on April 19.
The league won’t see a rematch of the senior football grand final between Waaia and Katandra until round 16.
A-grade’s 2024 grand final rematch between Katunga and Deniliquin Rovers is scheduled for round 15 the previous week.
There will once again be five weeks of finals, with the elimination finals beginning on August 16 before progressing through to grand final day on September 13 — the same day as the Kyabram District League grand final.
The interest swirling around Katamatite’s returning favourite son Tom Clurey will be heightened when the Tigers travel to Tungamah in round one before hosting Tocumwal in round two.
Three fixtures look ready to shape the top eight in the final round of the home-and-away season.
Dookie will host Strathmerton, Katunga will travel to Waaia and Katamatite will play Katandra in three mouth-watering contests that could perfectly set up a scintillating finals series.
There is a league-wide bye on July 12, between rounds 14 and 15.
For the full fixture, check out the Picola and District Football League Facebook page.