New South Wales Rugby League's Peter Clarke has praised the western region's clubs for the way they've handled the uncertainty around the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
More than 20 people from the Western Rams' multiple senior and junior competitions and referees' associations took part in a Zoom meeting on Thursday night, giving updates on their respective plans for a possible 2020 season.
And while the meeting was "overwhelmingly positive" Clarke has urged calm during what remains a dynamic period.
Restrictions could be eased across the country following next week's national cabinet meetings and what the next stage of community sport's return will look like was announced by Sport Minister Richard Colbeck on Friday.
READ ALSO:
With that in mind, Western Region Manager Clarke has urged representatives from all clubs to take their time in deciding how and if they will take part in a 2020 campaign.
"There's a fair bit of emotion but we probably just need to settle and think about the facts before we make a decision," he said.
"And those who are in some doubt, well continue to work with.
"But the vast majority can see how important rugby league and sport will play in the community.
"We're all itching to get out and play sport or watch sport."
Group 11 clubs Nyngan and Narromine have indicated they could sit out 2020 while the Woodbridge Cup's Manildra Rhinos became the first club in the region to announce they won't feature in any way in 2020 on Friday.
Clarke said he could understand each club in every competition being in a different situation, but was pleased to see that vast majority is on the best case scenario and providing the maximum amount of participation possible.
"I couldn't be more proud of the boards," Clarke said.
"It's all looking positive despite the circumstances."
At this stage NSWRL community competitions can start from July 18 while training can begin from July 1.
Minister Colbeck confirmed on Friday resumption of community sport and recreation activity will be staged with an initial phase of non-contact with 10 people or fewer.
The next phase would allow groups bigger than that to engage in full contact training and competition.
Do you want more sport from the Dubbo region? Sign up to our newsletters here:
Nick Guthrie
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
I started working at the Daily Liberal in 2013 and now hold the position of senior journalist. I cover all that's happening in sport in Dubbo and the wider western area and have a passion for doing so. If you've got a story that needs telling, reach out.
