"I AM entirely focused on this objective."
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That is the message from Football NSW chief executive officer Stuart Hodges as he pushes for the state government to give players of all ages some clarity on season 2020.
While it was announced on Tuesday that community sport would be permitted for those aged 18 and under as of July 1, the state government did not set a return date for senior sport.
So while Hodges is delighted that juniors across the state - such as those who play in the Lithgow and Bathurst District Football competitions - now have something to work towards, he wants seniors to have a target too.
"Whilst [the] announcement provides a welcome green light for the restart of junior and youth football, the return date for senior football remains unset," Hodges said in a message to the NSW football community.
"I want to reassure you that we are doing everything on your behalf to get clarity as to what that date will be. I know that many teams have commenced training and, like you, I am keen to get everyone back playing as soon as possible.
"I am entirely focused on this objective."
Football NSW officials, along with those from other state sporting organisations, will be holding discussions with the Sports Minister on Wednesday to try and "get some certainty on a recommencement date for seniors."
Hodges said that senior competitions are an "important component of our game" and wants "all age groups [to be] able to enjoy the physical and mental benefits of competitive sport."
Once a date for senior community sport is given, Bathurst District Football is keen to start a competition as soon as possible.
It will still take into account the need for full squad training before setting a kick-off date, but the aim is to fit in as many games as possible for participants.
