Ben Hollands fears football could start losing young players because of coronavirus.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The former Richmond player and Wodonga coach believes the recent period of enforced isolation may have impacted the long-term habits of some kids.
And Hollands is also concerned that of those who do return to competitive sport, a significant number may be persuaded not to continue with Aussie rules.
ALSO IN SPORT:
"I've seen studies about whether there's concerns about people's willingness to get back and participate, particularly kids," he said.
"Has their behaviour changed? Have they got a bit lazy? Are they now playing PlayStation?
"Hopefully we'll see some investment by governments to encourage kids to reconnect and get back out there again.
"There are even concerns from parents who are worried about sending their kids back out.
"We're already seen some concerned parents going to sports like basketball and soccer because (there is) less contact."
It's three years since Hollands unveiled his blueprint for reform in country footy and he still stands by those recommendations.
"It's death by a thousand cuts, the way things have been happening, and there does need to be some radical change," he said.
"With what's been happening with the coronavirus, restrictions around sport and financial difficulties at clubs, this could be the catalyst for some of that change.
"I'd love to see AFL Victoria say there's no player payments at all in 2020."
