David Kennedy CEO

Update from the Jersey Football Association CEO David Kennedy

David Kennedy writes to the local football community, encouraging clubs to ensure they are ready for a restart which could come at short notice.

The following message from Jersey FA CEO David Kennedy was circulated to clubs on 8.2.2021

Dear local football community,

The Jersey Football Association, like many of you, is extremely frustrated at the delayed restart of our sport in the island. We had hoped and envisaged that competitive action would be back underway by now, however the continued restriction on maximum gathering numbers, and the lack of an exemption for sports activities means uncertainty remains.

It now appears likely that any start date for the full resumption of football could be received at short notice, and we are not only faced with the problem of when we can start but also when we will be able to finish. Already, and despite having front-loaded fixtures this season, matches will need to be played well into June. We are keen to avoid July for logistical reasons which include facility availability, the Trinity Shield, and an impact on, and from, other summer sports such as cricket and athletics. In addition, pitches at FB Fields are currently out of action due to damage caused recently.

As you will be aware, we had previously informed that full squads would be able to train for at least a full week before playing competitive fixtures, however as time is now against us, we will require clubs to be ready to play as soon as possible when the government confirmation comes. We understand this is far from ideal, however we are aware many clubs are already training in small groups, and some have been continuing throughout the last few months in line with Government of Jersey guidelines. We would now encourage all clubs to follow this approach and prepare their players and facilities as best as possible in readiness to resume fixtures in the JFA Combination League, when given the green light.

If the number of positive Covid cases in the island continues to fall, we can all look forward to an exciting conclusion to the season and a gradual return to island life as we know it. In the meantime, the JFA will continue to seek clarity on a restart from the Government of Jersey on behalf of all our members.

Kindest Regards

David Kennedy, Jersey FA Chief Executive Officer

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