In 1912, like other MJFA clubs developing formal affiliations, Collingwood District developed an association with the Collingwood Football Club, which competed in the Victorian Football League (VFL).

As Collingwood was a seniors side, the Districts operated as its juniors team.

The competition was put on hold because of World War I, but the Districts resumed playing in 1918 in the Victorian Junior Football Association (VJFA).

[5] In 1919, the Victorian Football League introduced a reserves competition, known as the Victorian Junior Football League (VJFL) as it was contested by affiliated junior teams like Collingwood District.

[7] Although by the late 1920s the Districts were Collingwood's official reserves side, it remained a standalone club.