AFL South East has made the call to postpone the start of the season for local football leagues due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Mornington Peninsula Nepean and South East Women’s leagues have been postponed until 1 June. For junior players the Frankston and Districts, South East, and Mornington Peninsula leagues have also been delayed until 1 June.
The postponement also applies to the Auskick and umpiring programs.
In addition to the cancellation of games, AFL South East has also put a ban on training and practice matches with immediate effect.
An AFL South East statement read that “due to the increasing threat of coronavirus to the broader community AFL South East, consistent with the advice from the AFL, has made the informed decision to delay the start of all football and netball competitions and programs under its governance until after June 1. Our position will be reviewed around May 11 and applies to competitions and programs managed by AFLSE.”
“Key operational staff are currently working through different scenarios on how the season may look, with the wellbeing of all participants and the integrity of the competition at the forefront of mind,” the statement read.
“We ask that clubs report confirmed COVID-19 cases for their players, administrators and volunteers to shaun@aflse.com.au. Details to include club, gender and age. If supplied, additional details will be kept in the strictest confidence.”