In light of Northern Territory Government “lockout” directions in the Top End during Round 6 and the possibility of more to be announced in the remainder of the 2021/22 TIO Northern Territory Football League (NTFL) season, AFL Northern Territory (AFLNT), TIO NTFL Clubs, and NTFL Umpires Association (NTFLUA) unanimously endorse the following statement.
The TIO NTFL, its Clubs and umpires agree to proceed to play through “lockouts” while complying with Chief Health Officer (CHO) directions if implemented by the Northern Territory Government from Friday 3 December 2021.
Previously implemented CHO directions during a “lockout” allowed only fully vaccinated players and those in the Territory football community (umpires, coaches, volunteers, spectators, etc) to attend and participate in football activities inclusive of matches and trainings during a “lockout” period.
Unlike a “lockdown” where no games can be played, if a “lockout” is directed, the TIO NTFL, its Clubs and umpires will work with the football community to ensure the game can continue to be played during the “lockout” period in a safe manner while complying with Government directions.
The health and safety of the community remains the highest priority.
In order to adequately protect our game and the broader community, we encourage our football community to get vaccinated if you can.
We also encourage those who are yet to decide if they will be vaccinated to please seek the best medical advice for their personal circumstances so they can make an informed decision.
For more information and to book a vaccination, visit the Northern Territory Government website here or Danila Dilba’s website here.
Quotes attributed to Head of AFLNT Sam Gibson:
“AFLNT, NTFL Clubs and NTFLUA recognise COVID restrictions can impact a lot of people, and we believe football can continue in a safe and appropriate manner should a lockout direction arise in the Top End region again.”
“Footy always finds a way and we thank the NTFL Club Presidents who have done a lot of great work in ensuring players and broader Club communities are well informed on the importance of being vaccinated.”
