Stars breathe easier as bubble rules eased
The rebirth of the AFL season is only a week old and already key participants are desperate for a reprieve.
The rebirth of the AFL season is only a week old and already key participants are desperate for a reprieve.
Their desire is not related to the game. The players are delighted to be back on the field, which in turn has clearly pleased fans based on the strong television ratings for last weekend’s resumption round. But a month living under the AFL’s COVID-19 guidelines has proved difficult for players and those working inside the “bubble” at clubs.
The return round was only one match in and four players had already been suspended for breaches of the AFL’s policy designed to keep the competition coronavirus-free.
But as restrictions continue to ease, the AFL on Monday loosened some of the rules installed to safeguard the season. Footballers are now able to play golf or surf, a bonus for those based in the hubs on the Gold Coast, or visit their friends, for example. But that does not mean the challenges are over.
On the surface, a month at a golf resort in southeast Queensland during winter does not sound like a bad trade-off, but those living under the rules beg to differ.
West Coast defender Brad Sheppard said the adjustments would benefit players’ wellbeing.
The game can be all consuming at the best of times and Sheppard said spending additional time with teammates and club staff elevated this awareness.
The Eagles have a firm rule of no contact between players and staff on the players’ days off during their time in Queensland.
Sheppard said coach Adam Simpson had stressed the importance of the squad taking a break away from training. But he was certain being able to partake in regular weekly hobbies would have a positive impact.
“Simmo has been great, to give us the afternoons off to try to escape, because you can think about footy all the time,” he said.
“If I have an afternoon off, I will be able to get out, have a game of golf, or go down to the beach and have a surf. Hopefully, that will be able to clear blokes’ heads.”
Those living at home say the restrictions had an impact on their mental health. Western Bulldogs midfielder Josh Dunkley said there have been difficulties for players locked down between training sessions and matches.
“(There are) mental battles you go through and the footy life isn’t easy,” he said on SEN.
“So it’s important to be able to get out now and clear the head.”
Those working inside the bubble, such as coaches, medical staff and communications personnel, have been under the same restrictions as players.
More Coverage
Festival of Lies: Clubs ‘treating public for fools’ in trade spotlight
It’s the time of year for list managers and recruiters to shine, but the trade period has become a festival of lies. SCOTT GULLAN writes, the days of getting away with such gibberish are gone.
Revealed: Staggering asking price leaves Blue out in cold
The huge price Carlton forward Matt Owies has put on his head can be revealed as rival clubs baulk at his contract demands. Recap all the action from day 2 of the trade period here.