Oldies but goodies: Masters football to finally kick off this weekend

A double-header under lights will kick off this year’s compacted 10th anniversary Masters football season.

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THEY’VE had extra time to get as fit as they can and the Masters football players can now shake off the coronavirus cobwebs with their opening games of the 10th anniversary season at Anzac Park on Friday night.

The Masters competition for 35s-over is down from six to four teams this season, as the COVID-19 delay caused Sorell and Hobart to put their programs on hold.

A grand final rematch will highlight the start of the 2020 season when Kingborough and Lauderdale meet at Anzac Park at 7pm, and Lindisfarne’s two teams kick off the night in a club “derby” at 5.30.

Lindisfarne Football Club Masters players (L-R) Mathew Bedford, James Hodge (coach) and Sean McGuire keen to be back into the footy this Friday evening under lights. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN

“The players are all jumping out of their skins,” said Masters organiser Andrew Moore.

“It’s a six-game season with a gala day for the grand final.

“Having a season [is] about keeping our community connected.

“It’s really important for our guys to meet once a week for physical recreation and social opportunity, so it was important for them to keep playing.

“It’s also about their families coming to watch them, and partners and families, and the social connection that it creates.”

On grand final day, first and second play for the premiership, third plays fourth, and Moore is hoping it can be held at North Hobart Oval or KGV.

“That provides the Masters footballer with the opportunity to play on one of the iconic grounds,” he said.