Is it safe to play?

Dear MFCC parents and players,

We would like to provide an update on the U8 - U16 Boys trials process following the recent cancellation of sessions.

Extreme Weather

Unfortunately, the extreme weather conditions across Melbourne over the past week, including heat, storms and heavy rainfall meant based on all available information and forecasts available to us at the time, it was not safe or practical to run scheduled trials. Player safety is our highest priority, particularly given the increased risks associated with extreme heat and slippery or uneven surfaces.

Ground Conditions

Recent weather has also significantly impacted ground conditions. To protect the playing surface and ensure fields remain safe and usable for the remainder of the season, Glen Eira Council has been strict on ground allocations during the pre-season. Council has also advised that football boots, including studs, are not permitted on the grounds during this period.

Trials Planning and Refunds

The trials process is carefully planned and coordinated by the club’s Coach Coordinator and Football Department. This includes ground access, equipment set up and staffing to run each session safely. As these costs are incurred regardless of weather disruptions, the club is not able to offer refunds for cancelled trial sessions.

Stingers Training Clarification

The U12 and U13 Stingers teams did train on Tuesday. These teams have already completed their selection process, and the coaches were able to modify their session to suit the conditions with smaller group numbers.

Trials Process and Fairness

We would like to reassure all families that the trials process will still allow adequate time to ensure players are placed into appropriate teams.Our grading uses a multi source assessment approach, including:• feedback from a range of experienced coaches• player performance during trial sessions• each player’s performance from the previous season where possible.

Missing a session will not disadvantage a player.

Following initial selections, there will be a provisional squad phase, during which further observations will take place and team placements may be adjusted to ensure the best developmental fit for each player. We are planning to run three grading sessions and will adjust the provisional squad phase if needed.

Purim

We also acknowledge that next week coincides with the Jewish festival of Purim and some players will be unavailable. Unfortunately, with current limited access to Caulfield Park and restricted council availability, there are no realistic opportunities to schedule make-up trial sessions at this time. We are in discussions with Council to see if any additional options become available between now and the start of the season.

Thank you for your patience and understanding during a challenging period for scheduling. We appreciate the flexibility shown by our players, families, coaches and volunteers, and we remain committed to running a fair and balanced trials process for all participants.

Kind Regards

MFCC Football Department