Dear Parents,
I hope that you and your family are coping ok during what continues to be a challenging period for all of us. We know that it is a very disruptive time with so many normal activities either not possible or being accessed in very new and innovative ways. We also understand that for many families COVID-19 has also had a financial impact.
As you know participation in sport is such an important outlet for children in the benefits it provides them physically, mentally and socially. I know for my own three children their favourite time of the day is to kick the football in backyard or in the park. Unfortunately our dog doesn’t like giving the ball back!
We remain very optimistic about a return to football activity in 2020. Of course any return would be subject to advice and restrictions provided by the Federal and State Government, and Football Tasmania continues to work closely with FFA, other Member Federations and all levels of government to ensure we are ready to resume as soon possible.
FT is also working closely with Associations and clubs with the view to providing whatever support we can to give us the greatest chance to start football as quickly as possible. As information becomes available over the coming weeks this will be provided to clubs and parents to help you with your planning.
While it may be a different season and some flexibility is likely to be required, I’m sure you’ll agree that getting the kids back to football will so beneficial.
We understand that many parents, players and coaches are looking for activities and challenges that can keep them active, engaged and developing while organised football activity is suspended.
There are a number of sites on the internet that can assist with providing activities, including the FFA's Play at Home Challenge and the Skills Hub. On your mobile device the XPS Home app is a fantastic resource that provides activities, sessions and a community page for the upload of video from participants.
Football Tasmania is very pleased to support and promote the XPS Home app and to encourage regular and safe engagement in football activities whilst abiding by community health regulations.
Matt Bulkeley, CEO, Football Tasmania