PUBLISHED 17 MARCH, 2020, 4.48PM AEDT
National Statement
A note to the AFL football community,
The health and well-being of fans, players, umpires, officials, partners, volunteers and communities has been our number one priority.
We are determined to be part of the whole of community response to slow this COVID-19 virus down – and in doing so, help the broader community and our health systems to cope.
Following a series of meetings over the last number of days involving the AFL and all State and Territory CEOs, recommendations have been made in relation to Community football.
Consistent with the decision yesterday in relation to State League football and the national and state talent programs, all AFL and AFL State association managed or operated leagues along with the NAB AFL Auskick Centres programs currently operating or set to begin, will be postponed until 31st May 2020.
The AFL is also strongly recommending that independently governed junior and senior leagues and associations postpone the commencement and/or operation of their leagues/associations until the same date.
This decision and recommendation covers AFL community matches, AFL community training sessions and face to face AFL, WAFC and SANFL education courses.
Given the current climate of uncertainty and complexity, we felt it was best for our AFL community to take decisive action now.
The recommendation was collectively agreed upon based on the nature of shared public facilities across community football clubs and the health and safety of our volunteer network.
The AFL and AFL State and Territory Associations are committed to supporting community football during this time.
We are a game, but we are not the main game.
The main game is looking after the community and that is the clear priority for everyone at the moment. For football families like all families.
It is paramount that support and engagement in community football continues during these times. It is vital players, coaches, administrators, supporters, sponsors, volunteers and kids retain close links to their local clubs, Auskick Centres and wider league network.
The AFL will continue to meet with state and territory associations in relation to community football and will continually review this decision based on the changing circumstances and advice from government and relevant health departments and medical experts. We will communicate any updates and provide advice in a timely manner.
Football has had many challenges and despite the size of this one, football will find a way through.
-ends-
