Local indoor sport competitions to take the court again with heavy restrictions on spectators

Despite large crowds at the footy – including 15,000 at Showdown 50 – only one person per player will be allowed at indoor events, leaving basketballers putting on a brave face.

Despite large crowds allowed back to the football, including 15,000 for this week’s Showdown, only one person per player will be allowed at indoor sporting events.

Chief Health Officer Professor Nicola Spurrier and Premier Steven Marshall, made the announcement on Tuesday after leagues scrambled to fill fixtures to complete the 2021 season.

Professor Nicola Spurrier during the Covid-19 update press conference at the Modbury Hospital on August 4. Picture: Kelly Barnes

Spectators will also have to abide by health and safety protocols, including wearing masks, administering social distancing, and staying seated while eating and drinking.

A return to play is much-welcomed by SA’s indoor sporting leagues, namely basketball and netball, who are hopeful of completing their seasons, but accept the wait for big crowds.

Basketball SA will see its NBL1 Central season back in action on Saturday, with all teams taking to the court during a massive slate of 10 games on the day – but with no spectators permitted.

Basketball SA CEO, Phil Sinnott said abiding by the directions of SA Health was paramount in continuing the season.

“The health, safety and wellbeing of our community remains a priority,” he said.

“We are looking forward to return to competition this weekend and while we would love to have no restrictions on spectator numbers, we understand the intent of SA Health and will continue to follow more protocols for indoor sport once provided.”

Rod Cocks, president of NBL1 Central club Forestville Eagles, said it was unfortunate that larger crowds could not return yet, but is delighted his players will be hitting the court at Wayville this weekend against Southern and South.

“It is a bit unfortunate that we can’t have more spectators than about 30 or 40, but ultimately we are super excited to get back to playing,” he said.

“At the end of the day the main priority is to look out for the health and safety of everyone involved and get all the season’s games played as best we can.

“We’re really keen for games to go ahead.”

Forestville player, Michael Harris is also excited to set foot on the court again.

The star guard says he and his teammates are fully focused on finishing the season strong.

“We’re stoked to be back on the court after having some games on hold,” Harris said.

Eagles teammates Malith Machar (right) and Michael Harris at Wayville Stadium. The basketball will not be allowed many spectators, while 15,000 people are allowed a the football. Picture: Naomi Jellicoe

“Obviously you want as many spectators there as possible and while that added atmosphere and excitement from the crowd won’t be there we’re just looking forward to getting back out there and finishing the rest of the season strong.”

General Manager of Netball at Netball SA, Erin Haines is thrilled to see all competitions back in action this weekend.

She said Netball SA plans to help clubs who may be hit financially by spectator restrictions.

“We would’ve liked to see more of a crowd but the main thing is we want to see the sport played.

“We do have quite a few associations who can play outside and will have larger capacity limits, but we will continue to work directly with and support some clubs who may take a financial hit in terms of having less canteen production.”