FOOTBALL’s top body has backflipped on its decision to implement recommendations from its controversial junior review.
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AFL Western District on Wednesday night revealed it would place the recommendations on hold for the 2018 season.
The statement, from region general manager Kate Williamson, said the decision to hold the recommendations was made as “a number of new matters have come to the fore”.
AFL Western District did not respond to calls on Wednesday night.
The most contentious recommendations would force junior sides in both the Hampden and Warrnambool and District leagues to cap lists at 26 players.
It would also limit junior matches to just 16 a side, with five players on the bench.
“The decision has been made… to ensure all stakeholders have the opportunity to submit their views,” the statement said.
“AFL Western District will continue to gather information relevant to any potential changes throughout the 2018 season.
“Stakeholders will be invited to provide submissions to the review committee during the course of 2018, with a set of timelines for the process to be released shortly.”
As a result of the reversal, junior rules and regulations will remain the same as they were in 2017.
It comes after the Hampden league’s 11 clubs revealed they were considering a legal appeal against the recommendations in the junior review.