EDFL moves to ban spectators from huddles among other changes

A local footy competition in Melbourne has banned spectators from huddles in a bid to help reduce violent incidents. See the other changes they’ve introduced.

Spectators are set to be banned from attending the coach’s huddle at local footy games by a Melbourne competition.

Essendon District league officials informed its 37 clubs on Thursday night that spectators would not be allowed near team huddles of any senior or junior games from this weekend.

Saturday’s game will see the rules phased in before an official trial period starts on Friday, June 2.

It comes after a violent brawl broke out at the Division 1 senior men’s game between St Albans and Hillside last Saturday, just weeks after another incident at an under-18s match.

The decision follows in the footsteps of the Yarra Junior Football League who introduced the same rules earlier in the year.

“More information and direction” is set to be provided less than 24 hours before games are played.

Spectators will only be allowed inside the 50m arcs during these breaks.

It has not been made clear how this initiative will be policed by clubs or the league.

“Coaches’ huddles to be within areas close to coaches box,” the email sent to club said.

Match day managers are also set to be introduced at senior matches.

These roles, which are often filled by volunteers, are a common sight at junior EDFL games.

“This person will also go out to the umpires at quarter, half and three-quarter times to ask if all is okay (i.e. with players so they can be directed about behaviour of players or if a person or group of spectators needs to be pointed out then they or a senior person approaches the supporter or group),” the email said.

“(It’s) important that if the behaviour continues then further confrontation is avoided and the person/s identity is attempted to be established and further action taken later.

“Action to be at the discretion of the club.

Clubs will also be forced to enforce a 25m exclusion zone around coaches boxes at senior and junior level.

“Implement in games to the best of your ability (each club will need to adjust to accommodate at your ground where possible further implementation required over the period of the trial),” the league said.

“Support and advice from EDFL provided where needed.

“Use of cones/pollards/rope/paint on areas eg walkways to indicate area).”

Several EDFL clubs informed supporters of the decision via social media.

“All KPFC supporters, due to the recent actions of a few imbeciles which I’m sure everyone is aware of by now, the EDFL has put some trial restrictions in place as from this Saturday. It is imperative that we as a club, and the competition as a whole, adhere to this,” Keilor Park said.

Meanwhile, Burnside Heights added: “We understand that some of these initiatives may be frustrating however they are being done to improve the match day experience for everyone.

“Abuse towards anyone is unacceptable.”