Community football timeline updateFriday, April 17, 2020 - 1:34 PM

The West Australian Football Commission, as part of a national working group including the AFL and other State football bodies, this week received an update on the anticipated timeline for community football to recommence.

WAFC CEO Gavin Taylor said that while the exact date remained unconfirmed, a level of certainty had been provided about the actions and next steps that will be taken.

“While community football remains postponed until May 31st, the situation is constantly being monitored and it is anticipated there will be a further update on the timeline at the end of April,” he said.

“The conditions relevant to the May 31st postponement, whereby football club training and matches are not permitted, remain in place at this point in time.”

“We certainly haven’t given up on this season and, along with all participants and fans, are excited for footy to start again as soon as possible. We will be ready to go when the green light is given, knowing that footy will play a huge part in reconnecting communities right across WA.”

“It is important to remember that in all of our decisions, we will continue taking advice from all levels of Government and medical experts so that the safety of our players, coaches, umpires, staff and volunteers is prioritised.”

“We must ensure that when the time is right, footy can return in a safe environment that meets the Governments guidelines for stopping the spread of Covid-19.”

“As well as player safety, the integrity of the competitions and financial impact of returning to football must also be carefully considered, so any revised competition is sustainable and doesn’t place any undue financial pressure on clubs and leagues.”

“The national working group is also paying close attention to international benchmarks and behaviours and how other countries, who are ahead of Australia, are treating their return to sport and socialisation.”

“We thank everyone for their patience and understanding during this uncertain and unprecedented time.”

“It has been very encouraging to see so many people embracing the important role that football can still play in our lives. With the power of social media, we have seen an overwhelming celebration of football on our small screens – from trick kicks, skills and drills, family footy at home and some ingenious training techniques in isolation.”

“We thank everyone in football for playing their part in flattening the curve and are optimistic that we will get our game underway in some format this year. Rest assured, there is a dedicated team of people working diligently to explore what this might look like for clubs and communities.”

“Any clubs in Western Australia that are experiencing significant hardship should make contact with their League or the WA Football Commission so we can assess the situation and prioritise our support. We want to come out the other side of this crisis with all 463 community football clubs surviving and thriving.”

“Please look after yourselves, your family and teammates. We look forward to seeing everyone back at the footy as soon as possible.”

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