THE Riverland Football League has joined a number of competitions across South Australia in cancelling its 2020 season due to ongoing uncertainty surrounding social distancing restrictions.
The decision was made Wednesday night, with the RFL commission releasing a statement from chairman Shane Uren on Thursday morning.
Mr Uren said a number of factors were weighed up before a final decision was made.
“The Riverland Football League wishes to advise our sponsors, clubs and supporters that the 2020 season has been cancelled,” he said.
“This decision has not been made lightly and all aspects of playing in 2020 have been taken into consideration when making this decision.
“With the uncertainty of how clubs will be able to facilitate game-day crowd management, changeroom protocols and the social aspect of community football (being as important as the game itself) and with club events being impacted by social distancing, we feel this decision had to be made.”
Mr Uren said there is still a possibility of some junior football being played this year.
“The Commission and the RJFL (Riverland Junior Football League) will be having discussions around holding a junior football competition in 2020 and will have more information on this as soon as possible,” he said.
Mr Uren thanked everyone involved for their efforts in the lead-up to a decision being made.
“We thank all clubs, sponsors, supporters and most importantly volunteers for your efforts and patience during a very uncertain and tumultuous 2020,” he said.
“We look forward to working toward the 2021 football season.”