Response to season return largely positive from AWFA coaches

With the season on hold a day after round one, clubs have been eagerly awaiting when they can get back.

Only half as many matches will be played compared to the normal 22-round competition, but it hasn't taken away any excitement.

"I was jumping with joy," Cobram coach Bill Puckett said.

"I've been itching to get back for ages, pretty much since the lockdown started.

"The first couple of weeks were a bit weird, but as a group we had a program from day one and most of the boys have stuck to it.

"It's going to be an interesting season, but one no doubt we're still going to take seriously, be competitive and make the most of."

ALSO IN SPORT:

Boomers coach Andrew Grove understands there has to be compromises, but is looking forward to playing, especially given his side had a bye in the opening round.

"Training is difficult but we're still finding plenty of sessions to put on to improve fitness and skills until we can play competitive games again," Grove added.

Newly-appointed Melrose coach Sam Brosolo has had a a bizarre introduction, but he's up for the challenge.

"A very interesting start to my coaching career but can't wait to see how it turns out," he said.

Myrtleford co-coach and president Matt Park is hopeful his side can recapture some of its pre-season form.

"We are blessed with a young squad this year so should still be reasonably fit and strong," he added.

The social impacts of not having regular competition has also been a key factor, particularly at St Pats.

"It will be very different, with our team not in the shape we would like to be, as many teams will be, but the importance of connecting and having that social interaction that soccer on a Sunday brings may be what's more important than the result at the end of the day," coach Javi Martinez said.

Albury Hotspurs' mentor Matt Townsend is also over the moon.

"None of us get paid, we all play for the love of game and can't wait to get going," he added.

Wangaratta coach Daniel Vasilevski believes it's a reward for all the hard work put in by players, coaches and volunteers from all clubs.

"Regardless of the season format, I think it's a positive step forward and a win for AWFA," he added.

Wodonga Diamonds coach Daniel Griffin agrees.

"The players have all worked so hard since November so this will give them the chance to get the rewards they deserve for their effort," he said.

"It will also be good to see our hard working committee's efforts be rewarded by getting football back on the park over what has been a difficult period."

Twin City and Albury United coaches Shaun Wilhelm and Steve McClennan both had doubts about playing a shortened season.

Wodonga Heart and Twin City have indicated they won't field a senior men's side in the new-look season.