It’s “more than the sport”.
As grassroots sporting clubs last week became eligible to apply for state government funding, Williamstown Women’s Lacrosse Club spoke of the toll of lockdown but also of hope as it returns to training.
About 12,000 clubs and associations across Victoria will be able to apply for support under a $40 million program to help with basic running costs as they return to play.
The $40 million community club and association program provides grants ranging from $1000 to $350,000.
Lacrosse Club vice president Lynne Pike said the lockdown had greatly affected the club’s players and extended families.
“It’s a lot more than just not being able to play the sport,” she said.
“It’s the effect on the families, and with community development as well, just getting people from all teams getting together and knowing each other.
“It’s had a big impact on our club, let alone women being able to get out and participate in organised sport.
“Not having that club environment to encourage people to come down to train has made it quite difficult for everybody.”
Ms Pike said the club was keen to return to play but running costs would increase.
“From our club point of view, it’s been a lot of extra work trying to organise the players into groups so they can train in the allocated space that they’re allowed, and fitting in with all the guidelines as well,” she said.
“There’s a whole lot of extra cleaning that we have to do and sanitising of all the equipment and making sure people sanitise hands when people arrive and leave.
“Then we’ve got to have designated areas so people are maintaining their distance.”
