SANFL to consider less bye rounds in review of state league season
The majority of SANFL clubs back less byes in the state league and it is being considered in the annual review of the season, along with a later start date.
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The SANFL is to consider cutting the number of split rounds next season and programming a later start to the state league season.
An annual review of the season has started and the majority of the state league clubs are in favour of less byes and more continuity for the players and fans.
There have been four byes this season with three split rounds and a weekend free from action because of the state game.
SANFL general manager football Adam Kelly said the competition structure and length of the season was currently being reviewed.
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“How many weeks we occupy the calendar is being considered at the moment,” Kelly said. “Having 18 minor round games provides us with equity in the draw which is broadly welcomed by the clubs as they get to play each other twice.
“Having three byes and a week off for the state game is what we have had the past three years, but is that appropriate moving forward? To have less byes would mean starting later.”
The state league grand final is played the week before the AFL premiership decider. With the SANFL attempting to align itself with a 23-round AFL schedule, the high number of byes is necessary.
Kelly said the SANFL had been extremely satisfied with the 2019 season, noting attendances had increased five per cent and television audiences were up 16 per cent. He said the league was really pleased with the standard of football.
“There has been a lot of interest maintained in the competition and we should have a really strong finals campaign,” he said.
“It is an annual process, going through what has worked and what hasn’t. We are very pleased with the way things are going and the strength of the competition. We will get into that phase in the coming weeks, looking at next season.”