FROM May 18, South Australian sporting clubs will move from “Level A” to “Level B” of the return-to-play plan, which for netball clubs like Sandy Creek means allowing a maximum of 10 players per playing surface.
The Community Netball and Premier League Return To Play Roadmap, which came out over the weekend, also includes a number of precautions when players are due back at training, including staggering arrival times to avoid gatherings before sessions.
Sandy Creek Netball Club A2 coach, Bailey McQuillan, said most of his players are itching to get back on the court on the May 24 date the club has circled.
“I know my team in particular are chomping at the bit to get back, especially in a training atmosphere before any season kicks off,” he said.
“It’s been a while since we’ve been out on court together, so they’re keen to get their combinations flowing and start bonding as a team.
“So everyone’s keen, as far as I’m aware, to get back on court as soon as possible.”
Gawler Central Sporting Club president Kingsley Songer said he feels when the green light is given, things will be able to ramp back up to full speed quickly.
“If we get going… most things won’t be hard to crank back up again, it’s just a matter of when that’ll be,” he said.
“We’re well into preparation for the season, all of our netball trials are done… I don’t think it’ll be difficult to start again (once restrictions are lifted).”
While netball has its plan in place for the time being, the Barossa Light and Gawler Football Association met last night after The Bunyip’s print deadline to iron out the details of its return-to-play strategy.
The Bunyip understands a key item on the agenda is player payments after the SANFL confirmed its 2020 season would be played with a salary cap of zero dollars.
This development could see high-profile players sit out this season to lower any risk of injuries and future earning potential, but would greatly increase the viability for clubs, especially if the AFL is looking to push forward without fans.