THE Sunraysia Football and Netball League may be forced to think outside the square — or more to the point outside the Victorian border — to ensure it can continue its season.
For the second weekend in a row, no games will be played due to Victorian Government restrictions after the latest COVID-19 outbreak in Greater Melbourne.
Despite there again being no cases anywhere near regions such as Sunraysia, adult sport is again off-limits, even in an outdoor setting, for at least the next week.
Beyond that, who knows what the Andrews Government will do?
Will adult sport be allowed to resume in regional Victoria next Friday? Will there be crowds, or no crowds, or only limited crowds?
The SFNL has been consistent in saying that without crowds, it would not be able to play, given the cost to clubs.
So, if the Victorian Government continues with its draconian rules for the regions, could the SFNL consider shifting its competition into New South Wales until restrictions are fully lifted?
There are grounds in Wentworth, Dareton, Gol Gol and Euston that could be used by the league.
Just like the AFL has been forced to do, it may mean playing games at neutral venues, which isn’t ideal, but surely it would be better than nothing.
While the NSW border remains open to Victorians, the SFNL may have no choice but to go down this path.
It would require fluid thinking. And clubs would need to be flexible, too.
That may mean shipping their own food and supplies across the river. Or playing on Sundays. Or even a Friday night.
There should be an attitude of “whatever it takes”.
As it stands, the Victorian Government is making it very difficult for sporting organisations or businesses to plan with any certainty.
The SFNL would have little faith in being able to get their season back up and running with crowds in another week’s time.
If they aren’t already, it is time to start talking to clubs and coming up with their contingency plan.
We are in the midst of a wonderful SFNL season, which is one of the most even and unpredictable in recent history.
Let’s hope everyone can keep the ball rolling.
