Group releases proposed schedule, with three-week finals series likely

The proposed draw begins on July 18, with plans for a meeting to be scheduled where clubs can vote on a two or three-week finals format featuring the top four sides, and the status of clubs for a potential season.

It is understood the majority of clubs prefer the three-week system, which would mean the grand final is played on the long weekend on the first weekend in October.

Group Nine operations manager Bob Hay said playing the grand final on the Saturday (October 3) would be given strong consideration.

"One thing I haven't discussed with clubs yet either is I would be suggesting we play (the grand final) on the Saturday and not the Sunday," Hay said.

"That frees up Sunday-Monday so people can get away for a trip.

"There is also an option for a two-week final series as well, but I don't think that's going to prove too popular."

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The proposed nine-week regular season draw means five teams - Kangaroos, Albury, Young, Gundagai and Junee - will have four home games, with the remaining five clubs receiving five.

"We threw it out there to get some discussion and get clubs talking about what the competition may look like if things proceed," Hay said.

"It's not going to suit anybody and some teams may be more disadvantaged than others, but if we want to play football we've got to have a draw.

"I notice Cootamundra are saying they may not be able to proceed this year, we'll do everything we can if we do go ahead to make sure they can be a part of it.

"If a club did happen to drop out it shortens the season, but I'd rather not have that problem."

Cherrypicker president Garry Lucas said Young is unperturbed by the prospect of five road trips, despite traditionally carrying a heavier travel workload than most.

"We're pretty happy with the draw, we're pretty happy to play any footy at this stage," he said.

"Obviously we missed out on a home game and this all still has to be voted on at this stage, but I reckon as long as we're playing footy is the main thing."

Clubs are still waiting confirmation of a return to play framework, and Albury president Rick O'Connell was frustrated other sports are returning to training with guidelines already in place.

The NSWRL had expected confirmation from the NSW government on Monday, but it is now projected to arrive on Wednesday.

"The longer it gets delayed, the harder it will be to have a season," he said.

"I believe other sports are going back to training, so I'm not sure what the delay is.

"If it (season) does get up, we'll be doing everything we have to do to be a part of it.

"The other major concern is how it's going to affect clubs financially if we play this year.

"A lot of clubs are going to be without sponsors next year because they've been shut for a long period."