MPNFL clubs worried about the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic
Peninsula league presidents fear a shortened season without gate, bar and canteen takings could devastate — and even wipe out — some clubs, with some suggesting it would be best to scrap 2020 altogether.
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MPNFL club presidents have voiced concerns that a season without crowds could financially cripple some clubs.
In a Zoom meeting of MPNFL presidents last night, some suggested it would be best to scrap the 2020 season altogether amid the coronavirus pandemic.
A 10-round season, starting no later than mid-July, was mooted.
But if games were played without crowds — meaning no gate, bar or canteen takings — the financial hit on clubs could devastate, even wipe out, some.
No decision was made if the MPNFL would, or would not, push ahead for a season.
AFL Victoria could take the decision out of the local league’s hands anyhow.
MPNFL clubs did agree, though, that if at least two clubs believed they would be under financial stress (due to a shortened, crowd-less season), all clubs would agree to scrap the season.
The meeting was chaired by AFL head of South Eastern Victoria Richard Black and AFL South East chief operating officer Shaun Connell.
The presidents agreed that:
■ IF possible, a proposed later start date of about mid July.
■ IF at least two clubs were under financial stress around the start of the season then there would be no commencement of a season.
■ CROWDS of at least 500 have to be allowed for a season to go ahead.
MPNFL club presidents plan to meet again next week.
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