In a poll of 45 players, coaches and officials, 35 say no footy

The Border Mail conducted a poll of 45 players, club coaches and officials on the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Six said the season will go ahead, in some form, while 35 said it won't. Four were not sure.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, at least one high-profile player said the season will not only be canned, but it shouldn't be played to maintain the integrity of the competition.

"There's talk of a nine-round season, that's not a season as far as I'm concerned," he said.

"If it was a 15-week season, I would consider that fairer.

"I think the league should call it off."

Meanwhile, another said football should take a back seat.

"Football is a great outlet, but given what's happening around the world, I think it would be better to shelve the season," the top-liner said.

However, a small percentage feel there will be some action.

"It might not be what we're used to, it could be just four to six games," one player said.

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The O and M administers its league, while some others in the region operate under the AFL North East Border hub model.

However, it is up to individual leagues whether they play this season and not AFLNEB's decision.

AFLNEB is awaiting more Victorian State Government announcements, expected early next month, and will meet with all regional leagues on June 3.

That's not necessarily D-Day for a decision, but there's no doubt players, in particular, are hoping for an answer in the near future.

Given many started pre-season training in November, it's equated to the longest one in league history of around seven months.

A 'normal' off-season is around four-and-a-half months, pushing through to late March.