Dear valued members and fans,
The developing situation with COVID-19 (coronavirus) is having a huge impact on our community and the AFL industry, like so many others, is working through the challenges this presents.
Following advice from top health officials, the Federal Government today strongly advised against gatherings of more than 500 people to help contain the spread of the virus.
In line with this, the AFL has announced that games will proceed from Round 1, but without fans present. At this time, we don’t have a firm date on when fans will be able to return to attend games live. You can read the AFL statement here.
The health of our players, staff and fans is paramount. Together with our club doctors we had already implemented a number of precautionary measures around travel, hygiene practices and limiting access to the club environment. These additional measures around games are a necessary precaution as we work together to minimise the impact of coronavirus on the community.
We know that you will be disappointed not being there to support the team on game day. But we also know that you will continue to wear the red and white with pride and barrack from the loungeroom or wherever you may be, as we take on the Crows in Adelaide as Round 1 kicks off next weekend.
You will no doubt have many questions about what happens next. To that end, we are asking for your help on several fronts:
- Sydney Swans staff are working from home and our offices are closed to external visitors however our membership team remain available via 1300 663 819 from 10am-4pm Monday to Friday
- Club functions are postponed until further notice
- Please hold onto your tickets. Fans who have purchased tickets for Round 1 via Ticketmaster and Ticketek will receive a refund, while Sydney Swans, AFL and venue members, along with corporate hospitality clients, will be communicated to in coming days.
We will continue to provide updates and insights via the Sydney Swans website and app, and we will find new ways to connect with our members and fans to keep you up-to-date with the team.
The industry is still working through the implications of games proceeding without fans present. We will be guided by the AFL and will communicate details as soon as they come to hand.
We need your support now more than ever so thank you for your understanding, cooperation and for sticking with us. We will keep you informed as the situation evolves.
Above all, look after yourselves.
Cheer Cheer
Tom Harley
CEO, Sydney Swans
