The fixturing of local football matches early on Anzac Day morning followed requests from participating clubs, according to the local governing body.
Criticism from some quarters has moved AFL Barwon to defend the scheduling, releasing a statement this (Thursday) morning.
K rock Football understands clubs were told matches wouldn’t be fixtured until 10am, on what is the first Anzac Day to fall on a Saturday since 2020, when no matches were played due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
However, with the GDFNL playing a full slate of senior and reserves games, and two match-ups of senior and reserves scheduled in the Bellarine and Geelong leagues, some clubs were keen to have a full day of action at their venues, and agreed to play from as early as 8:00am.
“ANZAC Day is a significant and deeply respected occasion for all Australians, providing an opportunity to reflect on and honour those who have served our country,” the statement said.
“AFL Barwon, along with our clubs, is committed to upholding the importance of this day, which is reflected through ANZAC Day ceremonies held prior to senior matches in both the Bellarine FNL and Geelong FNL.
“The playing of football and netball on ANZAC Day has long been a tradition in community sport when the date falls on a weekend. It represents a meaningful opportunity for our football and netball community to come together, honour and reflect on those who have served and sacrificed.”
AFL Barwon says the timing of school holidays “presented challenges” when fixturing the start of the new underage seasons.
In all, nine matches across the under-18 and under-16 divisions have been scheduled to bounce prior to 10am.
“Where possible, matches have been scheduled later in the morning to allow players, families and volunteers to attend local commemorative services,” the statement continued.
“Any matches commencing prior to 10am have been arranged in consultation with, and at the request of, the participating clubs.
“All fixtures align with Sport and Recreation Victoria guidelines, with no entry fees or donations required.
“As such, these matches are permitted to proceed without the need for Ministerial approval, including those scheduled before 1pm. No entry fees will be charged across the BFNL, GFNL or senior female competitions on ANZAC Day.”
X: @krockfootball
