The Northern Football Netball League, in conjunction with the Eastern Football Netball League, Essendon District Football League, South East Juniors and Western Region Football League wishes to issue a statement regarding the 2020 season.
Following the State Government’s announcement of a return to Stage 3 restrictions in metropolitan Melbourne for six weeks commencing July 9, the NFNL, EFNL, EDFL, SEJ and WRFL have collectively decided to cancel all football and netball competitions for the 2020 season.
The common view was shared that cancelling all competitions for the 2020 season was the only viable decision in the best interest of all clubs, participants and the wider community.
All leagues and their member clubs have a clear obligation to prioritise the health and safety of all participants and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as a duty to minimise the burden on all club volunteers during this unprecedented time.
The leagues are committed to working closely with their member clubs, AFL Victoria and Netball Victoria to manage the associated issues related to the cancellation of all 2020 competitions and working towards a return to play next season.
We wish to take this opportunity to thank all clubs, players, parents, volunteers, officials, umpires and league partners for their patience, support and understanding throughout these challenging times.
Please stay safe and we urge all associated with our respective communities to heed the advice and regulations in place by order of the State Government.
We all have a role to play in ensuring our community remains safe and healthy and that we can all return to football and netball next season.
All clubs are reminded that club-sanctioned training and events are prohibited until August 19, as per Stage 3 restrictions.
Further updates will be provided in due course via your respective league.
