Statement from South Metro Junior Football League (SMJFL) Chief Executive Officer Sarah Loh
16 July 2020
After careful consideration of the current Victorian Government’s restrictions and the period of time we anticipate before these are eased, the SMJFL Board has resolved that the league can no longer offer its traditional football season this year.
The league will continue to consult with its member clubs over the coming weeks and endeavour to offer optional alternative programs if and when government restrictions allow. These offerings may include:
Lightning Carnivals;
AFL 9s; and
School holiday games/Round Robin/Intra-club matches.
The resolution that we are no longer able to provide a traditional season format in 2020 has not been reached easily. We understand that football brings so much joy to the kids and their families who support and watch them. The impact of COVID-19 has been felt widely across our community, and we understand that football and fitness are crucial for mental health and wellbeing. The league will continue to work with its member clubs to support the kids in our region to play football in the future.
The SMJFL would like to take this opportunity to thank all its member clubs, players, parents, volunteers and corporate partners for their hard work and unwavering support. The league will continue to work towards the alternate offerings and the 2021 season and bring football back to our community.
We hope you all stay safe and well during these unprecedented times.
