The start date for the 2020 Optus WAFL Premiership Season has been brought forward to July 18 following today’s State Government announcement that COVID-19 group gathering restrictions are scheduled to be completely lifted on this date.

WAFC Executive Manager - WAFL & Football Operations Scott Baker said that the State Government announcement paved the way for WAFL and WAFLW games to start on July 18 without any restrictions on crowd size, which was a driving factor for the competition and clubs.

“The opportunity to get games going sooner with no limit on spectators is great news for the WAFL and WAFLW clubs, players and fans,” he said.

“I encourage everyone to get down to a WAFL or WAFLW game with their family and friends, connect with their club, and show their support for grassroots footy.”  

“Big crowds will make the entire season more financially viable for the WAFL Clubs, which is so important to their ongoing success and recovery from these challenging times.”

WAFL Council of Presidents Chairman Mark Stewart said he was looking forward to the season kicking off on July 18 and thanked all of the WAFL club members, volunteers, supporters, players and officials for their ongoing support. 

“While it has been a very challenging period for the WAFL, it has been very encouraging to see the level of commitment from loyal club members, sponsors and everyone else involved with the competition,” he said.

“The WAFL clubs have been working closely with the WA Football Commission over the past few weeks to prepare for the possibility of Government restrictions being lifted earlier than August and to hear that announced today is really exciting news.”

“I can’t wait to see everyone back at the WAFL on July 18, when we have a big opening round of fixtures planned, please get out there and support your team.”

Round 1 Fixtures
Saturday, July 18
South Fremantle v East Fremantle – Fremantle Community Bank Oval
Swan Districts v West Perth – Steel Blue Oval
Subiaco v Claremont – Leederville Oval
Peel Thunder v Perth – David Grays Arena
Bye: East Perth 

The condensed season format will remain the same as previously agreed to by the WAFL Clubs, with every team to play each other once across nine rounds and the top four teams on the ladder to compete in a three-week Finals Series.

The Grand Final will be played on the first weekend in October, with the winner to be awarded the 2020 Optus WAFL Premiership Cup. Individual awards, including the Sandover Medal, will also be presented.

Quarters will consist of 16 minutes plus time-on to align with current AFL rules.

The WAFL Reserves and Simply Energy Colts competitions will also start on July 18.

Channel 7 will continue to be the competition’s major broadcast partner and showcase League matches and finals, as well as the Colts and WAFLW Grand Finals.