The AFL has advised all NAB League Clubs that this weekend’s scheduled matches will not proceed as planned as a result of the five-day lockdown announced by the Victorian State Government this afternoon.
 
The health and safety of the community remains the highest priority and we acknowledge the impact this decision will have on the NAB League community.
 
Outdoor physical recreation and sport will be closed across Victoria during the five-day circuit breaker extension period which starts on 11.59pm AEST Thursday July 15 and affects all NAB League matches scheduled for this weekend.
 
This applies to all NAB League Clubs located in Country and Metro regions.
 
All NAB League players will continue to be supported by their Coaches and NAB League region staff with integrated training programs that assist their football and physical development. These programs will include a variety of exercises and drills that can be performed during this lockdown period to ensure the risks of injury are minimised on their return to play.
 
All training is devised to comply with Government health and safety guidelines.
 
The fixture for the NAB League Boys competitions will be re-worked and continue to be a week-by-week proposition. The AFL will continue to work with the Victorian Government and Health Officials on finding solutions to play all fixtured matches. The AFL is committed to working through the rounds plus finals to complete the season ahead of the 2021 NAB AFL Draft.
 
All clubs have played at least eight games in 2021 with two Victoria Country and Victoria Metro challenge matches played in the last month. The pinnacle of the 2021 NAB League and 2021 NAB AFL Championships remains ahead of all players.
 
The AFL will continue to meet with all parties and review this decision based on the changing circumstances and advice from government and relevant health departments and medical experts. We will communicate any updates and provide advice in a timely manner.
 
The AFL would like to acknowledge the support of all players and their families and the NAB League supporters for their patience and perseverance during this time.