MAY COVID-19 Update

In light of the State Government announcement on Sunday, The Sharks can resume training from Monday May 18th under set conditions and protocols. 

This encouraging step towards the full return of community football in WA has been made possible by the easing of social distancing restrictions and group gatherings, as announced by WA Premier Mark McGowan.

Under the State Government’s COVID-19 WA Road Map, May 18 represents the date that Phase 2 conditions will be applied to WA Communities, which will allow for a return to training.

To ensure the safe return to training from May 18, the WAFC has worked as part of the AFL National Working Group, considered the AIS Framework for Community Sport and importantly, has aligned with Government to develop a series of guidelines for clubs to follow.

This includes a checklist for clubs to complete, hygiene and small group training protocols, as well as online COVID-19 infection control training for key club leaders.

Information & Resources:

Guidelines for a Return to Training in WA

Return to Training Protocols

Return to Training - Small Group Training Protocols

Return to Training Checklist

COVID-19 infection control training

Return to Training Frequently Asked Questions

It is important to note that although Return to Training in small groups will be permitted, it is still expected to be some time before football Returns to Play, with a number of Government restrictions required to be lifted before this occurs.

At present, all State League Competitions, Senior Community Football, Junior and Youth Football, Auskick Centres, Schools Competitions and participation programs remain postponed until at least May 31.

The Government will be responsible for guiding football’s progression through the stages for a Return to Play and make the final decision on when it is safe to take the next step towards full training and then competition.

The WAFC is also committed to exploring all options to launch a 2020 West Australian Football League season as soon as possible. This will involve further consideration of financial implications, the integrity of the competition plus community and player safety as part of our deliberations. We will also work with Government on the possibility for fans to attend the WAFL this year, as part of exploring all options to get a season away.

We will be ready to go as soon as the green light is given, knowing what an important role football can play in reconnecting communities right across our State.

It is the belief of the East Fremantle Football Club that the most likely realistic start date of the 2020 Optus WAFL Season will be in mid July.

Summary of key conditions:

• Return to training protocols come into effect from May 18.
• Training can resume in groups no larger than 20.
• All training is to remain non-contact
• Footballs are permitted, training equipment such as weights, tackling bags are not.
• Strict hygiene protocols need to be followed
• NO access to change rooms, gym or club rooms
• Groups must train on allocated areas of an oval, no cross over of training groups can occur.
• Social distancing rules still apply
• Clubs must complete return to training checklist and on-line training
• Clubs should make contact with their Local Government
• WAFC recommends the use of the COVID-19 App for all participants

OFFICE UPDATE

Our office is now open Monday - Friday between 9am-1pm. You can contact The Club during this time on 9339 5533 or admin@effc.com.au