RIVERLAND football clubs now have more of an idea of the money they will be able to spend on players next season after details of what the salary cap will look like in 2021 were recently released.
SANFL sent an email out to all club and leagues across the state, detailing the changes made to the total player payments system (TPPS) and approved player points system (APPS) for community football next year.
The changes have been announced after consultation between SANFL, Community Football and all clubs and leagues across the state.
The key change to the TPPS is that the total weekly player payment cap will be reduced from $3500 to $2500.
Marquee player payments have been removed, with the same maximum individual player payment of $500 applying for all.
A senior coach payment cap of $20,000 has also been introduced, which applies to both playing and non-playing coaches.
Any payment to a playing senior coach above $20,000 must be included in the total player payment cap.
New standard player and coaching contracts will replace the current system.
This will now include a requirement for a statutory declaration to be executed declaring that the terms and conditions of the relevant contract are true and accurate.
SANFL head of community football Tom Hurley said – in the email – that helping clubs and leagues through these tough times was his top priority.
“COVID-19 is one of the biggest challenges to face community football clubs and leagues, not only this season but into the future,” he said.
“SANFL Community Football are committed to ensuring the sustainability and viability of clubs and leagues – in that respect, we will continue to lead, support and assist community football to navigate the challenges that we will confront in 2021.
“A critical decision in that regard, is a determination with respect to the total player payments system and approved player points system for SANFL Community Football in season 2021.
“It is well understood the financial impact that COVID-19 has had and will continue to have on club revenue streams (i.e. potential limitations on events/spectators) and sponsorship (i.e. impact on local business) next year.
“In addition, a number of leagues have not competed this year and there has been considerable player movement with the abandonment of season 2020 by a number of clubs and leagues.”
Mr Hurley thanked all leagues and clubs across the state for their input in the decision-making process.