Another community sporting league has been cut short thanks to the effects of COVID-19 restrictions, with the SWVFA cancelling the remainder of their 2021 season.
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The news is disappointing for the Stawell Pioneers who had built strong momentum throughout the season, with the senior side third on the table when the season was cancelled.
Pioneers coach Junior Issachar said he was proud of the improvement his side had made in 2021.
"We have done really well since joining the league," he said.
"The difference compared to when I first joined is big.
"Unfortunately COVID-19 has ended the season and the trainings we had, and we were looking forward to trying to win a title.
"We will just have to wait until next season.
"We are really impressed with what our senior teams are doing here. There is a bright future for our soccer clubs here and we have some young ones coming up.
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"With the group we have I think we can do something great here for the soccer in Stawell."
The senior side also had the best goal difference in the competition with 47, after they scored 65 goals during the season and conceded just 18.
Overall they earnt 24 points across the season and were just three points behind the top-placed Warrnambool Wolves.
The Pioneers Under-14s were also in good form in 2021, rising to third on the ladder.
Across the season, they scored four wins and three losses, earning 12 points with a goal difference of 22.
In the Under-12 competition the Pioneers had a sparkling year, climbing to first place on the table.
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The cancellation of the season came as a cruel blow to the squad who had scored seven wins from their eight games.
The squad also earnt 21 points with a goal difference of 20.
Upon announcing the news to the competition the SWVFA said only one winner will be crowned in 2021.
"With the latest lockdown regulations not including a return to playing community sport in September, we are cancelling the remainder of the season in all SWVFA competitions," they said.
"Thanks to all the families, players, referees, volunteers for your involvement this year and we hope to get back on the park soon.
"We will be announcing the individual awards and teams of the year from the season on September 19.
"There is a settled winner in Under-14s and no league champions will be crowned in any other competitions."
Looking ahead to 2022, the Pioneers are recruiting new players for the Under-12s, Under-14s, Under-16s and senior sides.
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