20 October 2021

The Auckland 16s and 18s Youth Competitions have unfortunately been cancelled due to Auckland remaining at Alert Level 3 for the next two weeks, with no ease in restrictions.

No contact training is permitted at Alert Level 3; therefore, Auckland teams have insufficient time to prepare for a safe return to play.

NZRL explored alternative playing opportunities later in the year; however, these impeded school exam time and scheduled summer sports seasons.

NZRL will provide an update following Friday’s press conference regarding Waikato’s ability to re-enter the National Competition. Northland will re-enter the Youth Competition this weekend due to their change in Alert Level.

GM of High Performance and Football, Motu Tony, said, “It’s disappointing, and we really feel for the Auckland players during this time.”

“Rest assured, the 2022 calendar will see our current age group representative opportunities return, plus more; it will be our busiest year yet. So I encourage everyone to keep their heads held high and continue to play their part in stamping out the virus.”

In the meantime, NZRL encourages all those in Level 3 regions, Tāmaki Makaurau and Waikato, to stick to their bubbles, wear a face mask, and continue to abide by Covid protocol.

Any person feeling unwell or presenting cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms should immediately contact their doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453.