Netball superleague season cancelled
ENGLAND Netball has announced the cancellation of the Vitality Netball Superleague (VNSL) 2020 season - featuring Loughborough Lightning - due to the continued impact of the coronavirus outbreak.
The governing body has been working collaboratively with the VNSL Board, all 10 teams and key stakeholders to reach a collective decision on the season, which commenced in February and was paused on March 15 due to coronavirus.
A spokesperson said: “Since the outbreak, the VNSL Board have been continually monitoring Government and medical advice and have carefully considered various scenarios for reigniting the season, including extending the season and the option to resume the remaining season behind closed doors.
“All parties believe that concluding the season now is the most appropriate measure to guarantee the safety of the netball family, protect the long term future of all VNSL teams and ensure the VNSL can take necessary steps to come back in a strong position for a successful season in 2021.
“Despite the 2020 season coming to an end now, England Netball and the VNSL Board are continuing to review the option of a standalone short form VNSL competition or potential event in the autumn if it’s achievable and safe to do so, in a bid to provide fans with the chance to see their favourite players in action.
“The welfare and fitness of all players is critical and following the national lockdown, England Netball has also recommended that VNSL players have a minimum of four weeks of preparation and training before taking part in any competition to reduce the risk of injuries.”
Fran Connolly, CEO of England Netball, said: “It has become clear that large sporting gatherings will unlikely be deemed safe in coming months and after lengthy discussions we believe it would not be logistically possible or sustainable without crowds to reignite the season, which we are very disappointed to have to announce but it’s vital we no longer keep teams and players in limbo on the matter.”
They will now focus our efforts on working with VNSL teams to investigate an autumn offer and plan for an full return next season.
A statement from Loughborough Sport said: “To all our valued #LightningFamily whilst we are saddened by this announcement, we hope that you understand the decision. We are still working hard to bring you the biggest and best match-day experience to date and would love your continued support as we look ahead to 2021!”