PFA Statement
The Professional Footballers Australia’s A-League Delegates met on Monday afternoon to discuss a range of issues relating to the impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) on professional footballers.
During the meeting the players considered the FFA’s proposal alongside four distinct priorities:
- the overall responsibility to public health (including their immediate families);
- their own personal health risks;
- the economic impact of the disruption to the season; and
- the sporting integrity of the competition.
This meeting followed Football Federation Australia’s (FFA) confirmation this morning that the remainder of the A-League 2019/20 regular season, and the W-League 2020 Grand Final scheduled for this weekend, will proceed.
FFA confirmed the matches would proceed; with all matches to be played behind closed doors and with no fans permitted to attend.
“Firstly, we wish to acknowledge the effort of the players who have continued playing and training during what is an incredibly challenging and uncertain time,” PFA Chief Executive John Didulica said.
“The players identified that the farcical plight of the Victory players demonstrates how finely balanced this situation is and the potential costs that players are being burdened with.
“The players have an acute awareness of the gravity of the current situation across the community and how acutely it may impact on some of their peers.
“The players are committed to solidarity. If the league continues, no player group should disproportionately carry the burden imposed by doing so. It is the PFA’s intention to continue working with FFA and the clubs to reach a solution that achieves this.”
The PFA continues to work with club delegates from Sydney FC and Melbourne City FC regarding additional measures in advance of this weekend’s W-League Grand Final.
“We’re cooperating with FFA to ensure the health and safety of players isn’t compromised and a career highlight for many players is preserved,” Deputy Chief Executive Kathryn Gill said.
