2020 Season Start Date, 31st May - Club Statement
Michael Thomas
I am sure many of you have seen the article on the News relating to community Football and Netball being postponed until May 31st 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
As for the Suns this effects all of our Football, Netball, AusKick and NetSetGo programs.
The committee will meet as soon as possible to process this announcement and determine what the club can do moving forward for season 2020.
AFL Barwon has set up a frequently ask questions section on their website that we can utilise and navigate through the changes. This will be added to as more information is clarified. Please click the following link to access this here https://wp.me/pacu8E-2aW
Below is the full statement from AFL Barwon. Should anyone have any questions feel free to contact admin@surfcoastsuns.com
AFL BARWON STATEMENT ON COVID-19 MEASURES FOR SEASON 2020
AFL Barwon wishes to advise that following strong recommendation from AFL Victoria, the 2020 season for all AFL Barwon competitions be postponed until May 31 in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
AFL Barwon has also made the collective decision to immediately postpone and shutdown all training, practice matches, large scale events and gatherings at clubs across the entire region until May 31st in line with current health guidelines implemented by the Australian Government.
This unprecedented situation has presented challenges for everyone, and we want to thank our clubs for being proactive on this issue and know that will continue. The safety and welfare of our players, volunteers, officials and their families remains our number one priority.
Whilst we understand this is a big measure, we believe it is a necessary one. Clubs will still be able to hold matters such as a committee meeting at their headquarters in the interim.
NAB AFL Auskick centres and programs operating or set to begin as well as club school visits will also be postponed until May 31st.
AFL Barwon is asking clubs to respect this decision and while a revised date has been set, the situation is fluid and this could be adjusted as we learn and understand more over coming weeks. 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.
Following advice from the AFL, AFL Victoria, Netball Victoria, Government, health authorities and yesterday’s decision in relation to State League football, this state-wide decisive action aims to ensure the health and safety of football and netball participants in all regions across Victoria.
AFL Barwon is currently working through fair and reputable revised fixtures to cater for a shorter season which will be released in due course. AFL Barwon staff are also working remotely following set health guidelines to ensure we have a healthy workforce to guide our region through this uncertain period.
We are part of a game, but we are not the main game. It is paramount that support and engagement across all our region continues during these times. It is vital players, coaches, administrators, supporters, partners, volunteers and children retain close links to their local clubs, Auskick centres and wider network.
We will continue to work with our clubs, stakeholders and partners to ensure the integrity of the AFL Barwon region and our competitions remains.