Group Nine to give out options to clubs

The Diesels are still looking to take part in the 2021 season but only in reserve grade, leaguetag and the Weissel Cup.

With Cootamundra's withdrawal a bye is already part of the home and away draw and Junee not playing first grade would see seven weekends worth of byes in the first grade competition as the draw currently stands.

Group Nine chairman Andrew Hinchcliffe is looking to present clubs with options on how the season will look in the coming days, as the April 10 kick-off date looms.

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"Our most immediate concern is trying to support Junee through what is a challenging time for their footy club," Hinchcliffe said.

"Initially it is going to be working through as a group with the clubs about what it looks like and what the impacts are most immediately for this season.

"We'll advise all the clubs that that's the position Junee are in, propose some options to the clubs to vote on.

"From the board's perspective first and foremost we want to assist Junee in this difficult time to ensure they have a future however there are some considerable impacts on the draw if Junee remains in the competition this year as there is already a bye every week.

"We need to work that through with the clubs to see what is the best outcome for everybody."

Group Nine were able to run a successful season last year however due to the impact of COVID-19 only seven teams took part in the shortened season.

Hinchcliffe admitted there are concerns over what impact it could have on player numbers in the longer term however he hopes it won't be widespread.

"On the back of a COVID-impacted year we thought there could be some challenges in the space of player retention," he said.

"I think there is still plenty of time before the season kicks off for clubs to muster support and for players to register."

Hinchcliffe expects to give clubs different options in the coming days but Group Nine is open to other alternatives.

"We want sure we don't rush the decision," Hinchcliffe said. "I expect at some stage next week there will be an all-clubs meeting to consider all options and determine the best way forward from there."

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