‘Hopeful’ of playing

South West Soccer Association president Steve Gibson is cautiously optimistic about the 2020 season getting under way. The SWSA executive conducted an online meeting last week to discuss Football Federation Australia’s decision to extend the postponement of all soccer activities until May 31. “We are hopeful of being able to play this season but there are no guarantees,” Gibson said. “Football West have told us it is really about what the recommendations are from health professionals, along with the FFA. “We have told the clubs we need to make sure it is healthy and safe.” The SWSA executive has agreed that should the FFA elect to extend the suspension beyond June 21, the league will be cancelled for the 2020 season. However, if things improve and the suspension is lifted on May 31, the SWSA campaign would kick off on Sunday, June 14. This would allow clubs to fit in several training sessions before the beginning of the season, along with finalising final team numbers across all competitions. Gibson said although more than 40 teams had nominated to play across senior competitions this season, the number could be reduced if the season goes ahead, because of a variety of factors including unemployment and health concerns. FFA chief executive James Johnson outlined a number of variables would be considered before determining whether the suspension would be lifted. “We will continue to stay in close communications with our member federations in the lead-up to May 31, to ensure that the individualcircumstances of each State and Territory are considered.”