Vaccine policy will happen if SANFL deems necessary – Adelaide Footy League CEO
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Adelaide Footy League boss John Kernahan says the competition will implement a no jab, no play Covid-19 vaccine policy if directed to by the SANFL and SA Health officials.
The competition already has a no jab, no entry policy in place for league offices as per duty of care for its staff but is waiting on guidance regarding players and club staff.
Kernahan said he would be happy to work alongside the SANFL regarding a policy.
“If the last two seasons have taught us anything with regards to Covid it is to not plan too far ahead but this is one issue we are happy to collaborate with the SANFL on,” Kernahan said.
“Generally speaking, we are pro-choice but in parallel with that, if there are consequences of choosing not to be vaccinated and it includes not playing footy, then so be it.”
Kernahan, on behalf of the Adelaide Footy League, sent an update to all clubs on Friday, in it stating “we are at least open to it (a policy) being mandated in the near future”.
However, he has also expressed the competition’s frustration at the decision being left to local organisations.
“It is unfortunate something like this is being left to the SANFL rather than it being a universal directive from the State Government or SA Health that all can refer to whether that be education, industry or recreation, otherwise we’re all marching to a different beat,” Kernahan said.
“It seems to me the South Australian community at least by majority is screaming out for some direction even if only due to 80 per cent of the population being vaccinated by choice in any event.
“The clubs are very aware this isn’t necessarily an agenda item we can solve on our own and the league is only a microcosm of the wider community.”
Reigning division one premiers Prince Alfred Old Collegians said it would accept any directive from the league.
“The club will wait for direction from the ADFL, which we understand is dealing with the SANFL and other competitions,” co-chairman Tim Hall said.
“We are looking forward to completing the full season without disruption through Covid.”
Reds star player and competition best and fairest Jack Trengove was also eager to get a full season under his belt.
“I just hope we can get back to playing footy seasons that are as normal as possible again,” he said.
“Getting through a full season uninterrupted is the ultimate goal, and doing whatever is required to ensure that happens safely is what myself and the whole football club will be doing.”
An imminent decision and announcement by the SANFL is expected – with guidelines for local community competitions expected to be included.