Local footy could have its return ‘sooner than anticipated’ in South Australia following the easing of restrictions
Leagues are beginning to call it quits across the border in Victoria but in SA there is growing confidence among competition bosses footy could be “back sooner than what we anticipated”.
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Local football in SA could be “back sooner than what we anticipated”, according to SANFL chief executive Jake Parkinson after further coronavirus restrictions were eased by the State Government.
Premier Steven Marshall announced on Monday full contact training for outdoor sport could resume from June 1 and full competition permitted from June 25.
While the SANFL and community football leagues will not necessarily begin matches from that date, the changes have increased confidence seasons will get underway in 2020.
Spectators being allowed to attend matches, hygiene protocols, increased strain on volunteers and the ability for clubs to operate bars and canteens remain hurdles to matches resuming.
Parkinson echoed comments from the Premier and congratulated South Australians to help the state contain COVID-19 and allow the government to ease restrictions.
“Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen our SANFL clubs and many community clubs and their passionate volunteers rise to the challenge of undertaking a safe return to training under strict guidelines and protocols,” Parkinson said.
“Now, with further easing of restrictions being brought forward, it looks like we will see footy back sooner than what we anticipated.”
Head of community football Tom Hurley said the SANFL would wait for further details and advice from the State Government, before moving into the next stages of its return to play plan.
“While we have yet to receive confirmation on the ability for spectators to attend matches, we are buoyed by the early relaxation of restrictions, as well as the increase of patrons permitted inside venues,” Hurley said.
“We are confident that this will be considered favourably in future.”
Teams are still restricted to train in groups of 10 with social distancing protocols followed.
Leaders from the state’s community football leagues are set to meet for crucial talks on Tuesday, June 9.
The Adelaide Footy League has planned for a potential return to the oval on July 4 and chief executive John Kernahan said Monday’s announcement filled him with confidence it was a realistic possibility.
“A month ago we needed everything to go right to get a season underway,” Kernahan said.
“We’re confident enough now that we can say we would need everything to go wrong to not play.
“Our challenge is going to be mobilising 80 clubs, their players and volunteers. That’s why we’ve been on the front foot to keep the momentum going.”
Hills Football League president Don Cranwell said easing of restrictions was confirmation SA was on the road back for a return to footy.
“Our 19 clubs are keen … there’s a big responsibility on clubs and volunteers, that’s where leagues and the SANFL have to support them through this,” Cranwell said.
“But where we are now is a lot different to where we were a month ago. It’s looking a lot more positive.”