Albury-Wodonga Steamers withdrawn from all grades in Southern Inland Rugby Union

Victoria's latest lockdown once again left the Steamers unable to call on their players south of the border for this weekend's games against SIRU heavyweight Wagga City.

That prompted the club's withdrawal from all grades, leaving players and coaches devastated after months of hard work.

"Last year, this was all done before the season started and we were a consistent unit through the year but this year, it was up and down," Steamers president Mick Raynes said.

"For the players and coaching staff to prepare for games they weren't sure they'd be playing or to be playing and then have the rug pulled from under them at the last minute, it's emotionally exhausting.

"The positivity the players bring to the club is undeniable but equally undeniable is the impact this has on them.

"They just want to play rugby, hang with their mates, kick the ball around and show Wagga City we could beat them. To not get that opportunity is a bit deflating."

Justin Wheatley, in his first year coaching senior rugby, admitted the past few months had been difficult for everyone at the club.

"I feel for the core group of players that stuck it out and wanted to have at least one more hit-out, because we were well within reach of getting a finals berth," Wheatley said.

"I've developed a new appreciation for coaches and what they go through in terms of being able to put the same side on the park and execute your coaching plan.

"If you don't have that, it makes it really difficult to coach a team and be able to give the players what they need."

ALSO IN SPORT:

Raynes admitted the season ending this way was a bitter pill to swallow for one group in particular.

"The biggest crime here is our women," he said.

"They've had a phenomenal season and were looking well-placed. They were getting players back, they've been training well and playing great rugby.

"They've come from so far behind and were playing with such a high level of skill and intent.

"But to be fair, the SIRU board have been very supportive and empathetic to our situation all year.

"They've done everything they can and we really appreciate their support.

"Player welfare, their families and the community in general was our priority.

"Outside noise became outside noise and we were clear we didn't want to put huge pressure on the players to participate when they didn't feel comfortable.

"Most of the clubs have been on board - there's only one club that wasn't - but it's a devastating end to our season."

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: