Junior league ponders options
July start date considered with clubs keen to keep players involved
JUNIOR rugby league clubs do not have to rush into a decision about the viability of running a season.
On Monday, Cairns District Rugby League clubs agreed to cancel all senior competitions in the region, covering A- and reserve grade, under-18s and women’s leagues.
The clubs cited the financial uncertainty, the pressure on volunteers and conditions set out in Queensland Rugby League’s Return to Play Handbook as factors. Gathering limits, which heavily restrict spectator attendance, also played a crucial role.
Club and player surveys revealed a widespread changing of position with time, with the general consensus switching from getting back to footy to sitting out the year as the postponement went on.
Cairns District Junior Rugby League clubs face a similar decision, though chairman Jodi Stevens said a final call did not have to be made when they meet this Monday.
Stevens did not pre-empt the decision, nor does she want to sway the argument, but she did say her preference was for clubs to use the time they have available to come to a decision.
Gathering limits, which currently will move to 100 in July, could be the key when it comes to junior rugby league.
When asked if she’d prefer clubs to make a call on Monday or wait and watch what the government decides in terms of Stage 3, Stevens said she preferred the latter.
“I’d like to stretch longer,” she said.
“You can’t go full contact until July but we should see if things change. Rugby league, and sport, is important for a lot of kids.
“The 16s age group is extremely important. You want the 18s to be full of players and we don’t want to see the numbers drop off.
“A lot of the clubs have been positive, and (whatever the decision is) we’ll do everything we can to get them back on the field in some form.”
Stevens said there are several options on the table
It could mean a shortened 10-week competition in Term 3, which gives clubs, administrators and volunteers several weeks to prepare for how they will make it work.
Running only competitive age groups could also be considered. Participation in those age groups is already a challenge for every sport.
QRL Northern Division manager Scott Nosworthy had previously called for patience from the clubs. it out
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