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Tasmania’s coronavirus restrictions now allow for 500 fans when community sports reboot next month

The State Government has eased COVID-19 social restriction so 500 people can attend community sports, while rough weather lately prompted Premier Peter Gutwein’s nod to hot showers.

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THE State Government’s latest easing of restrictions means community sports can have 500 spectators at outdoor games when they boot up next month, and SFL club Hobart’s supporters are jumping out of their Tiger skins.

Premier Peter Gutwein says that 500 fans can watch their favourite players strut their stuff and he loosened his grip just enough to allow even for a hot shower.

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“This is fantastic for football, netball, soccer — those outdoor sports that mean so much to so many Tasmanians and Tasmanian communities,” Mr Gutwein said.

“They now have an opportunity to go forward. And importantly, as long as they use common sense they can have a hot shower as well.”

Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein. Picture: CHRIS KIDD
Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein. Picture: CHRIS KIDD

When community sports like football, netball, soccer and hockey resume next month, lock-outs will no longer be necessary.

“It has been brought to my attention with football starting again and players playing in some of the conditions that we’ve had in current days, a hot shower at the end of the game rather than getting in your car dripping wet and with mud all over you is probably sensible,” Mr Gutwein said. “But again, use common sense and strong guidance. If you don’t need to use the facilities, don’t use them.”

Hobart Football Club president Callam Upchurch said it was a strong connection that made SFL special.

(L-R) Hobart Tigers Football Club president Callam Upchurch, player Mark Cripps and members Paul Munting and Robert Upchurch excited that 500 fans will be able to attend their 2020 season starting in late July. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN
(L-R) Hobart Tigers Football Club president Callam Upchurch, player Mark Cripps and members Paul Munting and Robert Upchurch excited that 500 fans will be able to attend their 2020 season starting in late July. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN

People like the local aspect of it. It’s grassroots footy,” he said.

“People can get along and know people playing in the game — it’s a game for everyone.

“We are not looking to develop players into the AFL. It’s about participating and that’s why we get crowds along.”

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Original URL: https://www.themercury.com.au/sport/afl/tasmanias-coronavirus-restrictions-now-allow-for-500-fans-when-community-sports-reboot-next-month/news-story/9fc1d1b4670c1e824f8dddf8761ed8a7