THE Sunraysia Football Netball League (SFNL) is set to close its doors as the coronavirus pandemic continues to take a toll on Sunraysia sporting organisations.
Sport across the region has been put on hold as tough new social distancing laws have come into place over recent weeks.
The SFNL administration offices have continued to operate as usual despite the season being postponed until May 31.
But SFNL executive officer Peter Walker believes it is only a matter of time before they will also be forced to follow a number of other regional businesses in ceasing operation.
“I’d say in a couple of weeks I’ll probably be on indefinite leave,” Walker said on Monday afternoon.
“I have a few things to tidy up – a couple of back end things, but after that there isn’t really much for me to do.”
AFL Victoria instigated the shut down of community football earlier this month at the direction of health experts.
The SFNL board was quick to implement the recommendation, advising all clubs to stop training immediately.
Walker said the postponement of the season had left the local football and netball competitions in limbo with no clear end to the current situation.
“We are like all the other sports and businesses in the region who have been affected by this, we aren’t sure when it is going to end,” Walker said.
“It’s just a matter to taking the expert advice which is coming through and making sure we follow that.
“Everyone knows these are difficult times and we are all doing our best to cope.
“Who knows if we will get a season in – no one knows that at this stage and it’s probably not most people’s priority at this point.”
Walker said he had been in contact with most clubs over this difficult period.
He said insurance had been something which a couple of the clubs had raised with him.
“I’ve put a call into head office requesting some more information on the insurance clubs pay for each of their players to find out how this will work if we play a shortened season or one at all,” Walker said.
“Clubs pay an annual insurance fee which covers their players for training and match days.
“What clubs are asking is will the amount be reduced in accordance with the shortened season.
“I’ve reached out to head office for some clarity on this, but am still waiting.”
