Return to training an 'exciting step forward' for local footy clubs, says Mustangs coach

The Western Australian Football Commission (WAFC) yesterday confirmed local clubs and players would be able to return to training as of Monday, May 18, but would need to abide by strict guidelines in doing so.

Groups can not exceed 20 people, while all training activities are to be non-contact.

Footballs will be permitted, but the use of training gear such as weights and tackling bags will not.

Clubs will also need to abide by strict hygiene protocols such as social distancing, and the use of facilities such as changerooms and clubrooms will be prohibited.

But even with the restrictions in place, Peel-based clubs like the Mandurah Mustangs are relishing the chance to return.

The Mustangs appear poised to welcome players back to their Rushton Park base for a training session next Wednesday, May 20, with head coach George Costello thrilled to be back even in the limited capacity.

"It will just be good for the club to have a group of people back together," he said.

"Specifically with our group, almost all of our players are young.

"They're all mates who haven't been able to see each other or go to the pub together for some time now, so I think they'll be rapt just to be back having a kick."

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"Having a kick" could make up the bulk of that training session, according to Costello, with the non-contact rule making it impossible to carry out many of the team's usual drills.

"I don't see it being too hard to coordinate," the second-year coach said.

"We will probably do some circuit-like training, a bit of kicking, a bit of strength and conditioning as well. There's still a lot you can do without doing the man-on-man stuff."

The restrictions keep in line with the state government's social distancing directive, with the WAFC saying the return to training was an exciting step toward resuming matchplay.

But many questions still surround the local level's potential return, particularly with an expected ban of spectators at games.

Last week the Peel Football and Netball League told the Mandurah Mail it would need to ensure games were "financially viable" should the season take off.

"Our biggest concern is that yes, we want a season to go ahead, but we need to know it's viable to do that," PFNL general manager Geoff Hiller said.

Like many, Costello is hopeful the season will go ahead, but the Mustangs coach said it would take understanding from everyone involved to run games at minimal cost.

"Obviously player payments will need to come way down, coaches will take pay cuts, basically everyone that's part of running a game will have to do it for the love of the game," he said.

"I understand that looks daunting, but if anything I think it could help us get back to some competitive local footy."