Keeping players motivated has been a challenge for AWFA clubs through the 2021 season

Officials have left the door open to play four more rounds and finals but will cancel the season if it's not possible to start playing again by September 12.

"I'm a very positive person but I'm also realistic at the same time," Wangaratta president Dom Testoni said.

"Players are becoming frustrated and coaches are finding it difficult to keep players motivated right across the grades.

"From an administrative purpose, it has been difficult.

"Everybody wants some clarity but it's very difficult to give any.

"AWFA has been doing a great job in trying to keep people motivated but with each lockdown, it becomes more difficult and the motivation levels drop right off.

"At this point in time, we're trying to set ourselves up for next year in the hope that things will be better."

Clubs have worked closely together throughout 2021 and it's not just those towards the top of the ladder who want to see a result.

"I know what it's like to win a grand final and to lose one," Cobram coach Bill Puckett said.

"You're there for the season and you want to get over the line.

"Now we're at the bottom end, if we can tip off a top side, we've had an impact on the league table.

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"Having a winner, it closes the season and it will make everything we've done worthwhile.

"This season has been more of a mental battle than a physical one.

"I can only speak for what I see in Cobram but I can see there being an impact on numbers (if the season is cancelled).

"I think people will spend more time on their hobbies.

"If we can get closure to this season, that will be huge.

"That might not include Cobram in the senior levels but to get something over the line, that will definitely help the following season."

Albury City forward Patrick Brown agrees.

"I think it will make it hard for players to come back," he said.

"While you're not playing, people seem to get comfortable at home.

"It's important to get some sort of result.

"It gives teams an incentive to either repeat their success or do better.

"If it's all called to a blinding halt, with no conclusion, it's like 'what's the point, are we all wasting our time?'

"You come to pre-season and put in the hard yards, so if that were to be taken away without any recognition, it would be a tough pill to swallow."

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