Uncertainty of COVID continues to swirl around South West sport

South West sporting administrators have been working overtime in a bid to continually update COVID-19 related information to players, officials and supporters over the past few weeks. Despite West Australian Football Commission chief executive Michael Roberts confirming last Friday that the WAFL would adopt a “no jab, no play” policy, this has not been extended to the SWFL. As it stands, SWFL players do not have to be double vaccinated in order to play — however unvaccinated players would be forbidden from entering areas (for example, clubrooms and bar area) where a State Government vaccine mandate is presently being enforced. Spectators would also not be required to show proof of vaccination to enter a SWFL ground, however they would also be subjected to the same conditions if unvaccinated. SWFL club delegates discussed the matter at length during last Thursday’s league council meeting, with all clubs committed to ensuring they provide a safe and secure environment for everyone who enters their ground. League general manager Jason Crowe also outlined recommendations for club changerooms. “At this stage, the recommendation is for changerooms to be the bare minimum of players and officials. Spectators and other hangers on are requested to remain outside,” he said. “Inside a licensed premises, you will need to wear a mask. I am still waiting as to what will happen inside changerooms.” SWFL treasurer David Wedderburn expressed concern that a positive COVID-19 case could cause major headaches for all stakeholders. “From a financial point of view, our biggest problem is the current definition of a close contact,” he said. “And so if we have a positive test on a Tuesday afternoon following a game, every player involved in that game is going to have to isolate for 14 days. “Which is at least two more rounds. This is the biggest area of uncertainty, but hopefully the rules will eventually change more in line to what is happening over east.” Bunbury and Districts Cricket Association president Russell Lindroth confirmed the competition would revert back to its 2020-21 season pandemic protocols. Players do not need to be double vaccinated, however they must wear a mask. Club rooms will remain shut where possible, however if they must remain open, people are asked not to congregate in groups. The ball will also be sanitised each time it has been touched by a spectator. Players and spectators participating or watching Bunbury Basketball Association matches at the South West Sports Centre are exempt from proof of vaccination requirements but will need to wear a mask on the sidelines when not playing.