The Penrith Junior Rugby League has axed Sunday football this year.
In a letter sent to junior clubs yesterday, seen by the Weekender, clubs were informed only Saturday football will be played in 2020, restricting competitions to under 6s through to under 15s.
Those age groups will be able to return to play on July 18.
The decision follows months worth of speculation in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic.
“Our clubs and participants have been outstanding in working together to have come this far, we want to make life for our members and volunteers as easy and exciting as possible, to enjoy what our grassroots has to offer,” the letter said.
Doonside Junior Rugby League Club said it was “bitterly disappointed” with the outcome.
On Facebook, the club said it had expressed a desire for all competitions, including Sunday matches, to resume this year.
“Clearly many clubs have answered differently to us,” the post said.
“We are bitterly disappointed in last night’s announcement but remain resolute in our preparations for the 26 teams still participating with Saturday footy this year.”
The Weekender understands that two thirds of the clubs requested Sunday football be scrapped for logistical and financial reasons.
Not running the Sunday competitions has made the Saturday competitions more viable.
It’s understood some clubs were also concerned they wouldn’t be able to meet new Coronavirus guidelines that would be required for senior matches.
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.