Central Highlands Football League secretary Diane Ryan said the decision to not allow spectators onto Mars Stadium during breaks was to ensure the day remained on its tight schedule.
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There has been some noise expressing disappointment that supporters did not have access to listen in to their coaches address at the quarter and three-quarter-time breaks, while they were only allowed onto the ground for the senior grand final presentation.
But Ryan said it was an easy decision to make given the importance to not have start times for matches delayed and keep the day running smoothly.
“The main reason was to try and run on time,” Ryan said.
“It is very difficult to get people to get off the ground, sometimes they just don’t hear the message.
“You’ve only got to start running a little bit over (and it throws the day’s schedule out).
“The day ran a lot smoother.
“It was an easy decision to make.
“I wasn’t really concerned about the huddles.
“There were matches scheduled for the following day too, so it’s just respectable to try and keep it in good condition.
“A lot of people did comment that the atmosphere was really fantastic.”
Both senior grand finalists were contacted by The Courier but no comment was attained.
However, there was some negative noise on social media and members of the crowd about the decision, but it should be noted that the atmosphere was outstanding and grand final day ran extremely well.
The main reason was to try and run on time.
- CHFL secretary Diane Ryan
As for the Ballarat Football League grand final, which will be held at Mars Stadium on September 23?
AFL Goldfields boss Rod Ward said it had not yet been decided what standpoint the BFL would take on the issue but expected it to be discussed at Monday night’s meeting.
