The Rugby League Gold Coast Board has voted to bring back the greatest game of all to the region next month.
After months of uncertainty for local clubs and players about if and when they will be able to take the field this year, board members gave the green light for the game to return from the pandemic hiatus on July 25.
Rugby League Gold Coast chairman Peter Daley confirmed the positive step forward following last night's Board meeting.
“The decision to give our clubs and participants a date to aim for was an important step in the return to play process," Daley said.
“The league and board have been in constant contact with clubs supporting them through this difficult time.
"The clubs have communicated all of their concerns to us and we have addressed each of them the best we can with the knowledge at hand, given the circumstances.”
All clubs within Rugby League Gold Coast were asked to provide the Board their position on whether they would like to play in 2020 or cancel the season and return in 2021.
“Based on the feedback from the clubs and the continuous up-to-date advice provided by the Queensland Rugby League and Queensland Government, we believe that we can provide the opportunity for our players to play footy this season in a safe environment,” Daley said.
The chairman acknowledged there was still work to be done before getting onto the field in line with government and QRL advice.
By setting the date, clubs now have the opportunity to communicate the decision to their members to begin their process to get back on the field.
“We know there are clubs and players who can’t wait to get back onto the field while others are more reserved based on current restrictions," Daley said.
"We will continue to work with those clubs to ensure they are in the best position to play in 2020."
Under current protocols, clubs are able to begin non-contact training once they have completed their Return to Play checklist with assistance from league staff.
As venue capacity limitations potentially increase and clubs return to training, the league will determine the best format for the season.
Rugby League Gold Coast would like to thank club executives and volunteers for their tireless efforts and flexibility during this time.
The league also thanks the sponsors and community groups who have offered their support in getting rugby league on the park again.
