A statement on Friday confirmed the competition's fate. Three clubs - Kolora-Noorat, Nirranda and Merrivale - had pulled out of juniors as of Friday.

Warrnambool and District league president Kylie Murphy said club presidents were on Monday asked to discuss the future of the league and report back for the end of the week.

The Standard understands the league was scheduled to meet on Saturday to decide its fate but made the call earlier than initially expected.

Murphy said the health and wellbeing of players, supporters and officials was behind the decision.

"We are determined to be part of the whole community response to slow the COVID-19 virus down and in doing so, help the broader community and our health systems to cope," she said.

"We believe this decision is in the best interest of all those involved with the league.

"While this may not be the outcome everyone was hoping for, we ask that you support your clubs' and league's decision and move forward with season 2021 in your sights."

Murphy thanked club presidents for their enthusiasm in striving to salvage a junior season.

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