All matches in round one of NPL Men’s NNSW and NPL Youth NNSW competitions have been postponed due to the significant weather event in the Hunter and regional northern NSW.
A large number of grounds have been closed by councils and the vast majority of remaining pitches have not been, and are unlikely to be, prepared for playing in terms of mowing and marking.
There are also obvious safety concerns for participants, volunteers and spectators regarding travel. The short and medium term impact of playing on surfaces which may have received more than 100mm of rain in the days leading up to fixtures was also a factor.
All senior matches will be rescheduled to the catch-up weekend on 30-31 July with the same kick off times and venues.
All youth matches will be moved to the catch-up round on 20-21 August.
Clubs are welcome to discuss these fixtures with their opposition with the potential to play them over the Easter weekend (senior only) or midweek, provided both clubs agree under regulation 22 of the Premier Competition Regulations.
While we are extremely disappointed to not be kicking off NPL Men’s NNSW and NPL Youth NNSW competitions this weekend, we look forward to starting the competitions with round two next week.
In consultation with Interdistrict Zones, all sanctioned trial matches involving premier clubs and Zone Football League clubs have also been cancelled this weekend. Clubs are welcome to request changes to these dates on the appropriate form, noting that five business days are required for matches requesting referees.
