SANFL bans training for at least another five weeks as fallout of COVID-19 pandemic continues
The SANFL won’t play games until at least May 31, and now it has also suspended training for another month because of the coronavirus outbreak.
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The SANFL has halted training until at least April 27 following a unified approach by the eight member clubs.
Community leagues have also received a recommendation to cease training until next month.
The decision to scrap training follows the postponement of the start of the season to May 31 because of the COVID-19 outbreak.
However, as is the case with the season’s start date, the ban on team training could be extended.
There are ongoing discussions with the AFL and other state leagues amid plenty of uncertainty over the season’s future.
“State leagues, together with the AFL, are working to be aligned in their approach to player preparation and training,” SANFL chief executive Jake Parkinson said.
“Our highest priority continues to remain the health, safety and wellbeing of players, coaches, staff, volunteers and the broader community.
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“We will ensure there is adequate timing for clubs and players to train and prepare ahead of the commencement of any matches.
“Given the changing nature of the situation with the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re unable to confirm when training will be able to commence.
“At this stage, all SANFL clubs have collectively agreed to advise their senior players that formal training will cease until further notice.
“The league and SANFL clubs are continuing to work together in a unified manner to achieve the best outcomes and ensure every club can come through this as well as they possibly can.”
With the state league in limbo and at least five weeks before the players can return, Norwood and South Adelaide have opted to shut down their offices.
However, the Redlegs will continue to trade, while it is business as usual at the Panthers’ Jimmy Deane’s Bistro.
In a statement on the club’s website, Panthers chief executive Neill Sharpe said: “This is an extremely difficult time for the club as we deal with the impact of the measures which have been imposed across all industries, including football, as a necessity to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus and protect the health and wellbeing of the community”.
“Through this time your support is more crucial than ever,” he added.