Riddell District Football League confirms salary cap cut for 2021
It’s hoped a salary cap reduction in 2021 will help equalise the Riddell District Football League and ensure long-term sustainability of clubs and the league. Get the details here.
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The Riddell District Football League will cut its salary cap by $25,000 in 2021.
The league confirmed on Monday the salary cap for the new season would be $85,000, down from the $110,000 clubs could spend in 2020.
While a significant cut, it’s not as severe as some top flight metropolitan competitions have endured.
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A limit of $85,000 puts the RDFL on par with the Essendon District league’s Division 1 and slightly higher than the Northern league’s second tier competition.
The Ballarat league will cap teams at $100,000, Central Highlands will drop to $85,000 and Maryborough-Castlemaine remains $75,000.
RDFL operations manager Jordan Doyle welcomed the move by AFL Victoria, saying it would help equalise the competition.
“The decision was in line with the AFL Victoria recommendation, so we’re happy to move to $85,000 and I think the clubs will be as well,” he said.
“For the long-term sustainability of our clubs, I think it will bring clubs a bit closer together.
“Some clubs couldn’t get near the $110,000, so $85,000 is a little bit more attainable.
“Obviously with the impact of COVID-19 sponsorship and revenue streams might dry up a little bit so we think this is fairer across the board.
“We welcome the directive from AFL Victoria to bring salary caps down, I think this is going to be good for footy long term.”
While the likes of Diggers Rest, Rupertswood and Wallan have dominated the league in recent seasons, Rockbank, Lancefield and former RDFL club Broadford had struggled financially.
While the salary cap has been confirmed a decision on player points is still to be determined.
Metropolitan leagues were hoping players contracted to clubs in 2020 would drop a point if they recommitted for the 2021 season.
The RDFL is expected to follow the AFL Victoria directive when it is announced.