More than four months after the program was postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bendigo Pioneers will return to training on August 4.
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The Pioneers boys will start their revamped NAB League season on Sunday, August 23 at the QEO against the Murray Bushrangers, while the girls' season is scheduled to resume on September 5.
The Pioneers and fellow regional clubs - Murray, Geelong Falcons, Gippsland Power and Greater Western Victoria Rebels - are the only NAB League clubs allowed to return to training.
All six Victorian metro regions - Calder Cannons, Eastern Ranges, Northern Knights, Oakleigh Chargers, Sandringham Dragons and Western Jets - and the Dandenong Stingrays, are in lockdown regions and will not commence training or matches until at least August 19.
Pioneers talent manager Steve Sharp said it was a relief for the playing group and staff that the club could resume training from August 4.
"We'll train Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays for the first couple of weeks and then we play the Murray Bushrangers on August 23 at the QEO,'' Sharp said.
"Fingers crossed that we can contain the virus and we can get the season underway."
Sharp said there was a buzz amongst the playing group after they were told they could return to the training track.
"Everyone is really excited because we weren't sure if the season would go ahead and there's so many leagues around Australia that aren't playing,'' Sharp said.
"It's great to see the Bendigo and Goulburn Valley under-18s getting a start this weekend as well.
"It's great for all these kids to get the chance to play some footy.
"We'll only be able to have limited staff under the guidelines, but they're excited to get back involved.
"I'm sure the AFL recruiters are excited as well that they'll have some footy to watch.
"They'll watch some games at local level in Bendigo and Goulburn Valley and then have a look at us when we start against Murray in round one."
AFL head of talent and state league competitions Tristan Salter said while the current situation relating to COVID-19 continues to impact talent pathway programs in Victoria, the AFL remains committed to having some form of competitive games for all girls and boys in a safe environment.
"All levels of the game across the country have been impacted by the health pandemic this year. Throughout this season we have anchored every decision in-line with the advice of the respective government and relevant medical authorities. Our return to play plans and our timings is evidence of that," Salter said.
"The evolving situation across Victoria has meant we have had to make decisions based on geographical locations of players and clubs to ensure we give as many players the opportunity to play NAB League games this year.
"While we would prefer to provide a standard season of NAB League football for girls and boys across the entire state, this outcome ensures an opportunity for many players to continue their journey in the talent pathway.
The remainder of the Nab League draw will be released at a later date.
Salter said the AFL will continue to review all arrangements in consultation with clubs, the Victorian state government and respective health officers and strict protocols will be in place to protect players, officials, staff and the wider public when training and matches commence.
"We acknowledge it has been a challenging year for all NAB League players, parents, coaches, volunteers and officials and we remain united as a league to get through this together," Salter said.
"We remain committed to providing the right platform for the players and clubs and give NAB League girls and boys the opportunity to showcase their talent."
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