AFL Outer East – Return to play 2020 – Guiding Principles

Following an extensive period of consultation and feedback from our clubs, participants and stakeholders, AFL Outer East is pleased to release its Guiding principles of a return to football and netball. 

This document is not the roadmap back, rather it is the agreed requirements our clubs need to return to football and netball in season 2020.

The key components of returning to competition in football and netball will be provided by our governing bodies, state, and local government agencies. This will include return to train and play protocols and start dates. AFL Outer East will adhere to every aspect of these guidelines and protocols, which will underpin any return to football and netball.

AFL Outer East has set July 25th as our preferred return date for all competitions. Each competition has its own set of milestones and will be assessed independently; however, it is our desire to offer football and netball across all levels in 2020, which may include alternative models.

Working in tandem with our clubs and volunteers, as restrictions are lifted and start dates and guidelines become clear, we will meet and assess each stage. Any decision on returning or cancellation will be made in consultation with our clubs and participants. 

The message from our participants and our clubs is clear: A return is desired, but clarity is required soon.  With this in mind, our next meeting with clubs is June 23rd where we will meet to assess the best competition structure for 2020, including a decision on Senior football.

This date provides time for several key pieces of information, including a start date from the state government to become available.

We encourage all of our community to read the guidelines as they provide a clear picture of the plan going forward and the key milestones we need to meet in the coming weeks across all competitions.

The sustainability of our clubs and wellbeing of our members will underpin every step we take from here. We will do everything possible to get back in 2020 but understand that the next few weeks and months are critical in our return. 

We thank our clubs, participants and in particular our volunteers for their support and patience through this process.

A video explaining our Guiding Principles will be released over the coming days and detailed plans once competition structures are confirmed following the June 23rd meeting.

Read the full Guiding principles document here:  AFL Outer East Guiding Principles for competition return in 2020 – 5-6-2020   

 

Stay safe and have a wonderful long weekend.

Regards,

AFL Outer East