Ballarat Football League cancels season after latest lockdown extension

The Ballarat Football League has announced all football and netball competitions have been called off after Victoria’s latest lockdown extension.

Aaron Willitts is tackled by William Thornton-Gielen. Picture: Hamish Blair

The Ballarat Football League cancelled its football and netball seasons on Wednesday night.

Victoria’s latest lockdown extension to September 23 leaves little hope of playing even a standalone grand final.

The league had set a deadline of October 3 to complete the season but with the state’s growing COVID outbreak a return to community sport now looks some way off.

In a statement, the league said it would recognise minor premierships but not award flags.

“It is with regret the board of the Ballarat FNL have made the tough decision to cancel the 2021 senior competition finals series,” it read.

Kevin Klix marks in front of Hugo Papst. Picture: Hamish Blair

“It is the belief of the board certainty should be provided to our many players, volunteers and supporters who have been in a holding pattern as we live through the current COVID affected period,” it read.

“As a result of the cancellation of senior finals for 2021, the highest ranked clubs will be recognised as ‘2021 Minor Premiers’ in each grade.

“On behalf of the league board, thank you to every player, official and volunteer for their patience and resilience as we tried to get the best possible outcome for the Ballarat FNL and member clubs.”

North Ballarat claimed the minor premiership following an outstanding season under former AFL coach Brendan McCarthy.

The Roosters pipped Melton to top spot but four points having lost just one game all season.

The league was in the unique situation of having to consider both regional and metropolitan lockdowns.

Last month the league said it would not resume without Sunbury and Melton, who qualified for finals but were unable to compete under metropolitan restrictions.

The junior season could still be completed with an announcement expected next week.

“The junior competition will be assessed during the week of Monday, September 6 when government is expected to make an announcement on regional restrictions,” the league statement said.

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“It is at this point further advice will be provided to clubs on the junior football and netball and BFLW Youth/Girls competitions.”

Meanwhile, the BFL league best-and-fairest nights have been confirmed.

The Henderson and McLean Medals will be announced on September 15 in a virtual ceremony.

The BFLW Awards night is set for September 8 and the Robert Allan Medal junior awards night is scheduled for September 13.