Government restrictions remain the biggest hurdle to getting a season off the ground, with the league watching government announcements closely, with health and safety protocols and crowd numbers still major concerns.
Local football and netball back in business as training resumes
The GVL Board and presidents of all 12 clubs met on Monday, June 8, to review state government advice so far, but will be buoyed by last Thursday’s announcement by Victorian premier Daniel Andrews.
Contact sports for those age 18 or younger can resume from midnight, June 21, while senior contact training sessions are expected to return from July 13.
July 20 looms as a start date for full-contact senior competitions.
Samaria Suns hopeful for resumed AFL Masters season
GVL Board chairman David Roff said the league was aiming for a return to play for all grades of football and netball, but would wait for further announcements by the state government before finalising the league’s plans.
With more government announcements scheduled for Monday, June 22, a presidents’ meeting is scheduled for that night - where a final decision on the season is expected to be made.
GVL operations manager Josephine Spencer said the league was working with its clubs to explore alternative fixture and competition options.
“It is our aim to be able to facilitate a season in some form, but this is of course dependent on the easing of restrictions by state government,” she said.
Alternative junior football season likely for Benalla
Other sports in Benalla that will benefit from the upcoming June 21 lifting of restrictions include all-aged non-contact competitions such as tennis, all junior contact sports, while spectators are allowed at training and competitions.
Change rooms and showers can also open at sports centres and sporting clubs.
People are still expected to social distance up to 1.5 metres, while a maximum of 20 people are allowed per space.
If you would like to send a letter to the editor on this, or any subject, click this link
