Whilst a 2020 season is looking promising for Mid North Coast Rugby Union, the Kempsey Cannonballs have decided the logistics and costs involved in participating this year aren't feasible, announcing their withdrawal.
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In an statement from Kempsey Rugby Club President, David Munday, it was advised to Mid North Coast Rugby Union executive officer, Bob Wilson, that their senior men's, junior and women's teams were withdrawing from the MNCRU competitions in 2020.
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Cannonballs secretary, Brad Taylor, had previously told the Argus that without a canteen and bar as well as the presence of spectators it'd be hard to see the club participate in a COVID-19 affected season.
The affects of previous bushfires and the need for members to prioritise their personal and financial needs were also factors heading into the 2020 season.
The club advised that they look forward to coming back in 2021 for a full and uninterrupted season.
"If a season is to go ahead, our players would've had to incur more financial burdens and we just though that would be too tough of an ask," Taylor said.
"I can't speak for Port Macquarie and other clubs, but our town has been affected by COVID with job losses and financial problems and we don't have the resources to put towards only half a season.
"Our juniors weren't too interested in playing a half season and had already made plans to go camping and do other activities with their mates.
"Player safety and financial strain were probably the two biggest factors in our decision."
In a statement on the MNCRU Facebook page, Wilson explained that himself and Peter Gerathy, President of MNCRU attended a meeting last night with NSW Country Rugby Union and the NSWRU with their CEO, Paul Dorn.
They were advised that rugby union sporting bodies have been in constant communication with Rugby AU and the Government regarding the playing conditions, guidelines and restrictions for the 2020 Senior and Junior Competitions.
With 2020 Competitions not scheduled until the middle of July MNCRU advised that clubs wait a further 2 weeks for the Zone to be informed of all the final information.
Once information is received all clubs and committees can decide if Rugby will be played in 2020.
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Lachlan Harper
Lachlan Harper is a sports reporter at the Central Western Daily. Contact: lachlan.harper@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Lachlan Harper is a sports reporter at the Central Western Daily. Contact: lachlan.harper@austcommunitymedia.com.au
