WRFL UPDATE – AUGUST 9

On the back of the latest lockdown & on the eve of WRFL finals, the WRFL has examined the implications for each competition and the competition adjustments required.

In summary, the WRFL’s two finals series’ set to commence this coming weekend (Aug 14/15) have effectively been ‘pushed back’ one week. This means that should we be lucky enough to be back playing this weekend, Division 2 men’s will have a Bye before its finals series (having completed its home & away rounds), while Juniors will play their final home & away round before their finals commence next weekend (Aug 22).

Ultimately the likelihood of getting to this Thursday and not knowing whether crowds may attend finals this weekend, let alone whether matches can even be played, was a significant factor in this decision.

If we were to return to play the following weekend (Aug 21/22), matches fixtured for Aug 14/15 are effectively cancelled, with finals to commence across several competitions and, with any luck, more than one day’s notice/lead time.

The WRFL notes that while at this stage the adjustments are both relatively minimal and relatively conservative, if the current lockdown extends beyond the weekend of August 21/22, we will have effectively ‘run out of time’ and will need to consider what (if any) structural changes may be required to potentially condense the respective finals series for each competition into shorter timeframes.

Due to the evolving nature of COVID-19, we will continue to closely monitor the advice from State Government and relevant authorities. The WRFL thanks all clubs, players, parents and officials for their co-operation and understanding throughout the 2021 season.

Please stay safe and comply with the COVID restrictions currently in place.

A snapshot of the changes can be viewed here.