There will be a delayed start to the Bendigo Football Netball League this season.
AFL Central Victoria, the managing body of the league, announced on Tuesday morning that there would be a delayed start to all its competitions due to the COVID-19 virus.
Regionally, the delayed start also includes Bendigo Junior Football League and the Central Victorian Football League Women.
In a statement, AFL Central Victoria said the decision followed a meeting between it and the clubs.
“The decision was collectively agreed upon to delay the scheduled start date for all competitions until the first weekend in May,” the statement read.
“This decision was made due to concerns [about] coronavirus and the need to protect the health and safety of players, coaches, volunteers, supporters and the broader community.”
Gisborne and Kyneton were due to start their Bendigo Football Netball League season on Good Friday in a Macedon Ranges derby.
Kyneton’s women’s side, which plays in the Central Victorian Football League Women’s competition, will also be impacted.
AFL Central Victoria and league chairs are also advising all clubs to stop any football and netball-related activities, including practice matches, training, meetings or get-togethers, until April 1.
