JUNIOR rugby league players on the South Coast will return to the field in the coming weeks after the NSW government green-lighted the recommencement of under 18s sport on Tuesday.
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New South Wales Rugby League confirmed their junior competitions, including Group Seven Junior Rugby League, will kick-off next month, with the sport's governing body working towards a re-start of modified competitions.
At this stage, full-contact training will be allowed to restart from July 1, before selected competitions begin on July 18 - based on the advice of government and health authorities.
NSWRL chief executive David Trodden said it was exciting and welcome news for more than 80,000 girls and boys from 700 clubs across the state.
"This is a really positive outcome, not only for the rugby league community but the broader community, and we are grateful the NSW government has given the green light for a return to children's sport," Trodden said.
"It is really important though we all remain vigilant and adhere to the COVID-19 guidelines that have been set so we can all enjoy the return of sport for the long-term."
Trodden explained training (in groups of up to 10) can begin as soon as clubs have complied with the NSWRL's COVID-19 regulations - developed in line with the Australian Government's return to sport framework.
There has been no decision on adults returning to play, which means the senior NSWRL competitions and senior community football competitions (such as Group Seven), scheduled to re-start on July 18 are still on hold, pending further advice.
"We remain hopeful the NSW government will also approve a return to play for adult teams in the very near future, recognising the central role sport plays in our community and the positive impact sport can have in recovery from the coronavirus pandemic," Trodden said.