The Port Douglas Junior Crocs are back training and are finally gearing up for the 2020 season set to kick off in Port Douglas on Sunday 19 July.

And for those eager to play, there will be a Sign-Up and gear collection session, this Sunday 12 July at the Port Douglas Sporting Complex between 10:00am and 12:00pm.

Junior Crocs President, Craig Mitchell, said it has been a big effort by the Committee to overcome “the forever changing requirements” that have been placed on sports clubs to create a COVID-safe environment.

“The club is grateful for our coaches and volunteers who have remained committed and willing to forge ahead with the season which will go at least two months past its usual finish date,” he said.

The adjusted season will run from July through to finals in October.

“Understandably with ongoing concerns around COVID, we have had a large drop in numbers with initial estimates of the club registering 150 players by Easter.

“Following our return to training over the past three weeks we have had 80 kids who appear keen, committed and ready to take the field.

“Due to the large drop in numbers, we have had to adjust the way our teams are set up and in the end we have been able to field sides for children born between the years 2004 to 2013.

“We are also fielding an U15 side for girls born between the years 2005 to 2007. Girls born in 2008 and beyond will play in our mixed teams.”

Mr Mitchell said the club will follow all COVID-safe protocols.

“So far in the first three weeks of our return, things have gone according to our COVID plan and all feedback from parents has been positive.

“We are currently in the process of upgrading our COVID plan to align to the more lenient stage three return to play protocols.

Mr Mitchell said it will be a difficult year thanks to all the extra volunteer duties needed to maintain a COVID-safe environment, but it will be worth it to see the kids out on the field.

“In the end, our main focus and reason for returning this year is to make sure the kids that have returned, walk away having fun in 2020,” he said.

For more information contact portdouglasjuniorcrocs@gmail.com or 0476 313 016 or visit their website or Facebook.