A 2020 Castlereagh Rugby League competition is one step closer to becoming a reality with seven clubs indicating they are eager for some on-field action this year.
The plans that were put into place to play a shortened Castlereagh League competition this year were however dealt with another blow on the weekend after the Trangie Magpies and the Gulgong Bull Terriers both indicated they will not be participating this season due to financial reasons.
Castlereagh officials however remain hopeful the remaining seven clubs can still play a totally revamped competition.
The Group’s secretary Bryson Luff said some clubs have already received approval from NSW Rugby League to return to training in groups of 20.
“A further boost to the prospects of a 2020 Castlereagh League competition was the news that spectators will be allowed at games,” Mr Luff said.
Crowds will be permitted at games as long as the four square metre rule is adhered to.
Mr Luff said a number of clubs had previously expressed trepidation in regards to adopting COVID-19 Safety Plans which must be put into place before any NSW Rugby League sanctioned training or games can commence. He said a Safety Plan Zoom presentation by NSWRL’s Peter Clarke had served to allay any anxieties and all clubs can now complete their Safety Plans and submit to the NSWRL for approval.
While some other rugby league competitions have decided to not play in 2020 (neither Group 11 or Group 10 competitions look like going ahead this year but there is talk of a combined Group 10/Group 11 competition of the remaining interested clubs), Castlereagh rugby league enthusiasts have been given renewed hope that they will be able to witness some great on-field action this year.
