This means the Bernie Regan Sporting Complex competition, scheduled to begin on March 28, will be delayed by more than a month.

Other Shoalhaven products such as Alex and Callum Mackay and Nick Jennings, who play with Moorebank in Sydney, will also not start their 2020 campaigns this Saturday.

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This comes on the back of Hockey NSW's statement on Tuesday.

As you are aware, the World Health Organisation has declared COVID-19 a pandemic.

The situation regarding COVID-19 continues to evolve and change rapidly.

Hockey NSW is working closely with Hockey Australia, the NSW Office of Sport, other government agencies as well comparable State Sporting Organisations to ensure an appropriate response by the sport and recreation sector.

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The advice from Federal and State Governments are now focused on actions to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the community and protect those who are likely to experience more severe disease such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.

These steps are also essential to reduce the demands on the health system so that it can function effectively.

In response, Hockey NSW strongly recommends delaying the start of all hockey competitions and all related hockey activities (including training) in NSW until Saturday, May 2.

This recommendation is made with the health and wellbeing of our players, coaches, officials and volunteers and the broader community as the priority.

The decision also acknowledges that several member associations and competitions traditionally break for the Easter/Anzac period.

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The six-week delay will provide Hockey NSW and hockey communities across the state with time to plan for what will be a challenging and disruptive period.

At this stage, any events after this date (including state championships) are still scheduled to proceed.

However, the situation will be constantly reviewed, and any updates will be communicated as soon as possible.

As previously mentioned, things are moving quickly.

Hockey NSW will continue to work closely with relevant agencies and organisations to ensure we have access to the latest advice on how to keep our staff, the hockey community and the public safe.

This follows the recent announcement by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) postpone all Pro League matches currently scheduled until April 15.

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