THE AFL has on Wednesday advised all VFL and VFLW Clubs that this weekend’s scheduled matches will not proceed as planned as a result of the Circuit Breaker Lockdown extension announced by the Victorian State Government today.
Casey's fixtures against Darebin (VFLW) and Frankston (VFL) originally planned to be played at Casey Fields on Sunday will subsequently not proceed.
Outdoor physical recreation and sport will be closed across Metropolitan Melbourne during the seven-day circuit breaker extension period which continues from 11.59pm AEST Thursday June 3 and affects all VFL and VFLW matches scheduled for this weekend involving Victorian clubs.
The community sport restrictions apply to the VFL and rebel VFLW competitions.
VFL matches will be played in Queensland and New South Wales between non-Victorian teams this weekend as the AFL continues to navigate through a moving fixture to ensure games are played.
The Sydney Swans will host Southport at Tramway Oval, Sydney at 10.05am and Aspley will host Brisbane Lions at 1.05pm at Graham Rd, Aspley on Saturday June 5.
The fixture for both the VFL and rebel VFLW competitions will become a week-by-week proposition for the short-term and the AFL will continue to work with the Victorian Government and Health Officials on finding solutions for these competitions. The AFL is committed to working through the rounds plus finals to complete both seasons.
The AFL has prepared for this situation and the inclusion of byes for all VFL clubs provides flexibility with the fixture and allows for adjustments to be made. The rebel VFLW home and away season has two games remaining with a four-week finals series with flexibility in the calendar.
Training is permitted for players located in Regional Victoria with group sessions capped to a maximum of 10 players.
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.
We acknowledge this remains a complicated and rapidly evolving situation but as a football industry we will band together to support each other. This is a reminder that we are all part of a broader society with a responsibility to make sure our community remains safe.
The AFL would like to acknowledge the support of all industry stakeholders and the legion of fans and supporters for their patience during this time.
