Dockers’ future decided Monday

AFL Tasmania chief executive Rob Auld says Burnie Football Club has until Monday night to decide whether the Dockers will remain in the TSL in 2018.

A crisis meeting between Burnie officials and key AFL Tasmania stakeholders was held yesterday evening to determine Burnie’s future in the state league.

The meeting was set up after the Dockers made a shock announcement on Wednesday, informing AFL Tasmania that the North-West Coast club may not be able to field a TSL side in 2018, citing a lack of players.

With little coming out of last night’s meeting, Auld said Burnie had given itself a Monday deadline to inform AFL Tasmania of the club’s future.

“Based on what we’ve agreed, Burnie will call us on Monday night with a decision one way or another,” Auld said.

“Our discussions were set up as a way for the Dockers to see if AFL Tas would accept the club fielding just the one team in 2018.

“From our absolutely.

“We want Burnie in the TSL in 2018 and beyond.”

Despite no concrete decision coming from yesterday’s meeting, Auld said he predict- point of view, ed Burnie will be able to put forward a TSL team this year. “It seems to me that the likelihood of Burnie fielding two teams in the TSL is somewhat doubtful,” he said.

“However, I feel a growing sense of confidence that they will be able to field the one team in 2018.”

Auld acknowledged the issues the Dockers faced in attracting players to the club, but said Burnie boasted an impressive administration and off-field stocks.

“Everything that’s been presented to us in terms of Burnie’s off-field frameworks has shown a huge step forward,” Auld said.

“Obviously their biggest issue is getting enough players on the park.

“But it was evident that Burnie had better training numbers than in recent weeks, and the community turnout was really strong.”

Auld said that irrespective of Burnie’s ability to field a TSL team this year, AFL Tasmania continued to be dedicated to the state league.

“It’s obviously our preferred outcome that Burnie stay,” said Auld.

“But regardless of the outcome, we’re 100 per cent committed to the TSL continuing.”

Devonport dropped out of the TSL in December.