Football Department Update

From the desk of Dale Ballantyne, Football Operations Manager

The most frustrating time for a footballer and indeed all football staff is when there is no light at the end of the training tunnel. Unfortunately, that is what the Perth FC and all other footballers at every level in Australia have been experiencing since the arrival of COVID-19. Being so close to the start of the 2020 WAFL season, after months of pre-season work, was the hardest part of the restrictions for the players to take.

There is no denying that the last few months hasn’t been easy on the players. The playing group have been diligent in completing the fitness program supplied by our S&C Coach Saia. Last week the playing group resumed training at the club in groups of up to 10, and I am proud to say they have returned fit and will be ready, should a season come into effect this year.

This modified training schedule is in line with Health Department Guidelines and recommendations made by the Australian Institute of Sport. The groups are led by minimal support staff, and we are grateful to have a dedicated team or coaches who are willing to volunteer their time as the club navigates through COVID.

These training sessions remain closed, for now. We look forward to being able to share open training, and eventually games, with our supporters.

On behalf of the playing group and Football Department, I would like to say thank you to everyone who has sent messages of support, joined as a member or supported the club in another way during this time.