Season Start Update

From the NWSF Association …..

NWSF 2020 Season Update

On Friday, there were some significant announcements which may allow a return of community sport activities in the near future. The AIS produced a "Framework for rebooting sport" to which FNSW and FFA have provided input . The aim of this is to ensure we can resume football activities safely in a phased approach. As reported in the media, the AIS framework is designed to facilitate the gradual resumption of activities in a “cautious and methodical manner”. The government also released its 15 principles for the resumption of sport and recreation, which said the Framework "provides a guide for the reintroduction of sport and recreation in Australia", but decisions on when to implement each phase would be made in "close consultation with federal, state/territory and local public health authorities". These provide us with a high degree of optimism that we will be able to commence a winter season. At this stage, the suspension of football activities remains until 31 May, and we expect that FFA & FNSW will review this considering the information released yesterday. The most recent media release from Football NSW can be seen here. We have been working on options for the season based on various start dates and have also been in discussion with local councils with the view to extending the season into September to enable more rounds to be played. In the meantime, NWSF is fully supportive of the Australian Government COVIDSafe application. We recommend all players, officials and supporters download this app onto their phones and be aware of its use. The COVIDSafe app is available to download via the Apple App store or Google Play. The statement from FNSW about use of the CIVIDSafe App can be seen here. Please also be aware that Hornsby LGA, Lane Cove LGA and Ryde LGA are currently listed as hotspots / outbreak regions for COVID19. If you reside in these areas, please consider testing to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you. We understand everyone is keen to get back on the park soon, and we thank you for your patience. Whilst we await the season to commence, NWSF has been providing free online resources for all players and we encourage you to make use of them. Activities are regularly updated on the NWSF Facebook page so make sure you follow us.

Mark Lockie

CEO