VIOLET Town coach Joel Price has been left shattered by the Kyabram District League's decision to abandon this season.
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The former Henty and Howlong coach had recruited strongly over the off-season and fears neighbouring leagues could "pick-off" his side if they go ahead.
"Similar to some people in the Hume league, I guess I'm pretty flat," Price said.
"As a club we wanted to play.
"My biggest disappointment is why make the decision now.
"They have waited this long so another week or two wouldn't have mattered.
"It might be the right decision but the timing is what I'm disappointed about."
The Hume, Kyabram, Millewa and Heathcote competitions have abandoned their premiership seasons while several other district leagues could make decisions as soon as next week.
Kyabram District league operations manager Nathaniel Dedman said the decision wasn't made lightly at a vote on Wednesday night.
"There is a real concern regarding the health and safety of our members, supporters and volunteers while this virus is still not under control," he said.
"We also have concerns about the financial impact on our clubs and members given the current hardship facing our country right now.
"Without memberships, gate takings, canteen and bar revenue of sponsorship, makes community sport a tough place to operate.
"As a league we went into this crisis with 15 clubs, and we intend to have 15 clubs joining us when the first ball is bounced in 2021."