Country footy: Heathcote District league chair highlights no jab, no play policy

A country footy competition says a no jab, no play rule should be introduced in 2022.

The chairman of a country Victorian competition is ready to advocate for a ‘no jab, no play’ policy to get play underway in 2022.

Peter Cole from the Heathcote District league in central Victoria says he wants his players vaccinated ahead of next season.

But he would also like to see that policy extended to spectators.

“It’s something I strongly believe in,” Cole said.

“We’re happy to push the message for people to go and get vaccinated. For us, it’s all about community safety.

“We’ve seen the devastation this virus can cause and we thought it was important for us to get on the front foot early with our message.

“I haven’t officially presented this idea to the league’s boards or clubs but I’m sure it will be a discussion point in the coming months.

“As a competition we have always aimed to create the safest possible environment for everyone who was involved.”

Cole said spectators should also operate under the same rules as players and officials.

“Speaking to club presidents they told me crowds were up 20 per cent on the previous season,” he said.

“I think that figure is only going to grow next year because the hunger to get back to community sport is only going to grow.

“We’ve only played 12 games in two years and the impact on people’s mental health is clear for everyone to see.

“It’s important we give ourselves the best chance to complete a whole season in 2022.”

In Victoria, anyone over the age of 12 is eligible to be vaccinated.

The Heathcote District league includes seniors, reserves and under 18s footy.

Netball includes grades down to under 15s.

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