ACTJRU calls off junior rugby season due to COVID-19 lockdowns

The decision was described as "regrettable, but not surprising" in a statement released by ACT Junior Rugby Union president, Martin Sullivan, last week. In the statement, Sullivan said that the decision was made to protect its participants and comply with the health restrictions put in place by the ACT government.

"Even if lockdown was to be lifted on 2 September, there are a number of challenges that would prevent a finals series to be completed, such as the subsequent time available to prepare and plan for both a finals series and the Girls Rugby Gala event," Sullivan said.

All teams involved in ACT junior rugby will finish the season in the same positions on the ladder as they were in round 11.

The Yass Junior Rugby Union Club responded to the cancellation in a statement posted to its Facebook page.

"Unfortunately the 2021 season is now over. While it is not the news we were all hoping for, we can still thankful that we did get most of our season in this year," the club said.

"A huge thankyou to all of our players, volunteers, supporters, and sponsors for 2021."

Along with the ACT junior season, the national program run by Rugby Australia and the Under 15s fixture organised by Brumbies Rugby have also been cancelled.

Sullivan thanked everyone involved in the 2021 season for their participation and support, and asked that they follow the health guidelines.

"The ACTJRU urges everyone to remain safe and follow the COVID-19 guidelines as set out by the ACT government," he said.

"It is a most unfortunate situation that the players, coaches and families will miss the opportunity to complete the end of the rugby season in the traditional way, but the health and safety of our community is paramount."

As yet, there has been no communication from the Brumbies regarding the future of the senior season. However, it is of no import to the senior men's and women's Rams, who both lost tough matches in the first round of finals.