This week the AFL has proposed the introduction of one of its most interesting concepts, and all things going to plan, one of its most brilliant.

In the years since the AFL became the almighty body that it is today, the powers that be have given the public a raft of changes to considered, whether they are rule changes or the introduction of new teams, the AFL has been extraordinarily active in keeping the sport up to date. But this week it has been revealed that the league is proposing a state based, FA Cup-like competition called the Leagues Championship Cup.

In short, this competition brings together the best teams from the VFL, WAFL, SANFL, ACT, NSW, QLD and TAS for a knock out competition to decide the best state league side. For this current AFL administration, this move comes after numerous big changes to the league, with the Leagues Cup concept showing that the states are important too.

Whether just for the uses of recruitment and scouting out new talent as the league expands further afield, the AFL has finally put the spotlight back on the state competitions, and they deserve it. After years of grooming and nurturing stars for the big league, competitions such as the VFL and WAFL are now getting recognition and greater exposure for their brand. With Foxtel supposedly on board for the television rights, teams such as Port Melbourne and Swan Districts will receive a national audience.

Having personally been to numerous VFL matches, to say that the standard is good would be an understatement. With more AFL players being found running around the suburban grounds people are finally realising that the state leagues are a great place to watch some fantastic footy, supporting teams full of history and success that some AFL sides could only dream of.

The Leagues Cup concept also allows for more coverage for the NSW, ACT and QLD teams participating in the competition. With new sides on the Gold Coast and Western Sydney this new competition creates even better opportunities for footy to spread through the ‘hostile' zones. If we have learnt anything from the last few years, the AFL will do almost anything to make news in the expansion market. The Kevin Sheedy appointment is a perfect example.

However, unlike most grand and foolish acts to grab headlines, the AFL has instead made a brave and clever move to add another layer to Australian Football. By putting their backing behind the state leagues and their talent, the AFL has made a move to create something lasting and hopefully special.

If the AFL decides that the Leagues Championship Cup should go ahead, it may not be just another lost event on the busy football calendar, but a tradition, that all footy fans can get behind.