Postive lessons learned that we should continue post-COVID

But while the coronavirus pandemic has caused long term headaches for small businesses, pubs, clubs, and sports teams and associations, there have been some positives to emerge we should persevere with going forward.

A stronger sense of community: Whether it's throwing a couple of bucks into the tip jar at the coffee shop, checking on your elderly neighbour's welfare or ordering an extra meal or two a week from a pub which has supported your team, it's been amazing to see people rally together for each other.

One of the great things about living in a regional area is everyone is usually willing to help even a complete stranger if they see they're doing it tough, especially in circumstances that are no fault of their own.

A greater appreciation of community sport: We can all now admit we took training and games on the weekend completely for granted pre-COVID.

It was simply always 'there'. Not for a second did anyone think it would be wrested away from us for a long period of time.

When players don't feel up to going to training or a game in the future, we need only look back on the current period to remember it's a privilege to be able to do so.

Some other countries won't be as fortunate as us in returning to sport next month, and may not do so for some time.

More diversity in keeping active: With league shut down everyone has been forced to think outside the square, and become a little more inventive in finding ways to fill the void in our fitness regimes.

Some who may not have ridden a bike for some time may be donning the helmet regularly, or others who aren't passionate runners are pounding the pavement.

These activities have just as many mental benefits as physical when we've been trapped inside for an extended period.

Bike shops have experienced a massive boom in sales and repairs as many turn to pedal power to shed those isolaton kilos.

Hopefully the pushies and joggers aren't thrown to the back of the garage once this is all over, and people continue those good habits.

Reduced salary caps?: Surely clubs will see the light and concede that the money being thrown around in Group Nine Rugby League and the Aussie Rules leagues in particular isn't sustainable long term.

While Group Nine has resisted applying a limited salary cap, Aussie Rules leagues have done so.

Spending on players, especially considering the calibre of some, was already out of control before the coronavirus pandemic hit.

The crisis has shown that a reduced cap should remain to ensure the long term sustainability of clubs.

We need to make sure there's enough funds left over for a rainy day, and it's pelting down at the moment.

Don't be surprised if leagues set far lower salary caps next season, which will be best for all involved.

We can't have players earning big match payments when some teams are playing out of tin sheds.

More appreciation of volunteers: A big concern when sports have been debating whether to have seasons is the fear it would further burden loyal volunteers who are already overworked.

Volunteers are the lifeblood of clubs. Without them, we are lost.

If you're lucky enough for a season to get up and running in your respective sport this year, make sure you thank those people who don't do it for the plaudits, but deserve them just the same.

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