Senior Grand Final update – Saturday 11 September

Following last night’s meeting with Senior clubs the decision has been made that the Senior Grand Finals will be staged on Saturday 11 September.

With the government due to make an announcement on lifting the current lockdown on Thursday 9 September this means that the Grand Finals will be played just 48 hours later as a straight 1st v 2nd based on the ladder standings at the end of the home and away season.

This means the end of the road for both Port Macquarie Magpies and Lismore Swans Seniors and Women’s teams, Grafton Tigers Reserves, and Coffs Harbour Breakers Under 17 teams. This is extremely disappointing for these teams, but the decision to progress in this way was made with the support of these clubs as they understood that there was no other option to move forward. Thanks to these clubs for their understanding.

As with all decisions made in the past month, the Grand Finals will only be able to proceed if a return to community sport is included as part of the revised Public Health Order that the government announces on 9 September.

To reduce the risk of injury to players that won’t have trained or played for a number of weeks leading up to the Grand Finals, quarter lengths will be reduced by 20% in all grades (20 minute quarters in Seniors, 12 minute quarters in Women’s and Reserves, and 16 minute quarters in Under 17).

In the meantime, players are encouraged to physically prepare to play the Grand Finals on 11 September. Advice from experts in AFL strength and conditioning recommend running three times per week (allowed under the lockdown) including directional changes and speed variations, and kicking a footy several times per week.

Clubs have been provided with conditioning programs that were developed by a former AFL coach, so if you need a program please contact your club.