Dear Saints members and supporters,
I wanted to take this opportunity to provide an update on your club’s response to the current situation regarding COVID-19.
We know that we are far from alone in dealing with challenges presented by the virus and that you are almost certainly confronting issues within your own workplaces, schools and various other sporting and community groups.
We also know that this is a rapidly changing environment and there are some measures proposed should the threat of infection increase, that we haven’t dealt with previously.
The potential for government containment measures to restrict fans attending sporting events is real as evidenced by the impact to the Australian Grand Prix this weekend and something which the AFL industry is preparing for right now.
As you would expect, at St Kilda we are undertaking a great deal of contingency planning to be prepared for such an unprecedented situation, with a key focus on understanding and addressing the impact on you, our loyal members and supporters who remain at the forefront of everything we do.
Your passion, loyalty and commitment has, as of yesterday, driven us beyond last year's total of 43,000 members.
The importance of this support cannot be overstated as we prepare for the challenges we may face in the coming months.
We will continue to update you as we receive greater clarity on how containment measures will impact the club, and at the appropriate time, endeavour to answer any questions you may have.
For now, we have listened to the advice provided by the AFL, the relevant health authorities and our club medical officers, and taken steps to reduce the risk of infection for our players and staff.
Unfortunately, this involves limiting the physical interaction our players and coaches have with people internal and external to the club, including our thousands of members at training sessions, games and other events.
We ask for your understanding as we take these precautions to ensure our players (men and women) have the best chance of taking the field in full health.
We will absolutely provide as much access as possible through our digital channels, and as soon as possible, resume our normal practices.
Our 2020 call to arms – “Together We Rise” – has never been more apt as it will take all of us to work together to rise above the challenges we are facing as a Club, a Game and a Community.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
Take care.
Matt Finnis
Chief Executive Officer
