Ballarat Football Netball League officials have pulled the plug on this year’s junior finals, citing the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions.
The league announced earlier this month that the seniors competition finals would not proceed, but held off on a decision about the juniors.
But following the release of Victoria’s ‘roadmap’ out of lockdown, the Ballarat FNL board announced “with deep regret” that it was cancelling the junior finals for BFNL Junior and BFLW Youth / Junior competitions.
The decision effectively ends the 2021 seasons for all grades in these competitions, meaning the teams that finished on top of the ladder at the end of the home & away season have been recognised as the minor premiers.
League chair Adrian Bettio said with the announcement of the roadmap for a return to activities, it became clear that community sport will not be able to commence until a fully vaccinated rate of 80 per cent has been achieved, expected to be around the November 5.
“This decision is one that we knew was coming but we all wanted to hold out some hope that it would not eventuate,” he said.
“I feel for the kids who just want to get and play with their mates and finish the year with finals.”
Mr Bettio said whilst the board was willing to allow as much time as possible to play finals, it is now evident this is not possible under the current plan.
He said that the decision will at least provide certainty to all the junior players, volunteers, and families that the season has concluded.
“We will do everything over the offseason to make sure the 2022 season gives everyone the opportunity to play and to catch up on two lost years through COVID,” he said.
“I want to thank the many club volunteers and parents for their patience, understanding and support of the league and each other through challenging times.”
