The AFL has advised all NAB League regions that this weekend’s scheduled matches in Victoria will not proceed due to another seven-day lockdown announced by the Victorian State Government.
All NAB League, community football matches, training and Auskick will not be permitted to take place in Victoria during this time, as per State Government restrictions.
The health and safety of the community remains the highest priority and we acknowledge the role the NAB League plays in keeping our community safe.
The AFL has flexibility in the season structure for all clubs to play the fixtured 12 games before the NAB League Wildcard Round and new NAB League Finals commence at the end of August. The pinnacle of the 2021 NAB League and 2021 NAB AFL Championships remains ahead of all players.
The AFL will continue to explore all opportunities to expose talent across the Victorian talent pathway including NAB League, NAB AFL Championships, VFL and community football.
All NAB League players will continue to be supported by their Coaches and NAB League region staff with integrated training programs that assist their football and physical development. These programs will include a variety of exercises and drills that can be performed during this lockdown period to ensure the risks of injury are minimised on their return to play.
All training is devised to comply with Government health and safety guidelines.
The fixture for the NAB League Boys competitions will be re-worked and continue to be a week-by-week proposition. The AFL will continue to work with the Victorian Government and Health Officials on finding solutions to play all fixtured matches.
The AFL is committed to working through the rounds plus finals to complete the season ahead of the 2021 NAB AFL Draft.
Football is such an important part of so many lives and communities across Victoria, and we understand how these constant disruptions have a significant impact on the game and communities. These are really difficult times and the AFL will continue to explore all available options so that we can bring the game back as soon as possible.
The AFL will continue to meet with all parties and review this decision based on the changing circumstances and advice from government and relevant health departments and medical experts. We will communicate any updates and provide advice in a timely manner.
The AFL would like to acknowledge the support of all players and their families and the NAB League supporters for their patience and perseverance during this time.