As the effects of the worldwide coronavirus pandemic continue to permeate throughout our society, a decision has been made to postpone all community football and netball leagues around Victoria, including the North East, until at least May 31.
Teams affected in Benalla and districts include; Benalla Saints (Goulburn Valley League), Benalla All Blacks and Goorambat (Ovens and King League), Violet Town (Kyabram District League), as well as Benalla Giants, Benalla Bulldogs, and the Benalla Auskick Centre (Benalla District Junior Football League).
Coronavirus threat has sport on lockdown in Benalla
In a statement released by AFL Goulburn Murray's Regional General Manager, Jamie Macri, last night, it stated, "Following a series of meetings over the last number of days involving the AFL and all State and Territory CEO’s, recommendations have been made in relation to Community Football due to the ongoing health crisis caused by COVID – 19.
"The AFL is strongly recommending that independently governed junior and senior leagues and associations postpone the commencement and/or operation of their leagues/associations until the same date. This also relates to community matches, community training sessions and face to face education courses.
Discipline sees Pritchard earn black belt
"This decision has been made based on protecting the health and well-being of fans, players, umpires, officials, partners, volunteers, and community.
"This is our number one priority. We are determined to be part of the whole of community response to slow the COVID – 19 virus down – and in doing so, help the broader community and our health systems to cope."
Under the separate guidance of Netball Victoria, Benalla Netball will also postpone its domestic competitions (held on Tuesday's and Wednesday's) until April 14.