North Melbourne CEO, Ben Amarfio, says while the club is disappointed its pre-season game against Hawthorn has been shifted from Launceston to Arden St, it understands and respects the AFL’s decision.
“We all have to be flexible and need to adapt in this uncertain environment to ensure the safety of everyone, and we must do whatever it takes to get the home and away season underway and completed,” Amarfio said.
“Of course we are disappointed our Tasmanian members and fans won’t get to see us play next week, but we are cognisant of the fact these decisions are being made in the interests of managing a very real risk, and ensuring the safety of the community, players and staff.”
North was initially scheduled to take on the Hawks at UTAS Stadium in Launceston on March 6 as part of the AAMI Community Series, but will now host the game at its spiritual home.
“We are pleased to offer the opportunity to Kangaroos’ and Hawks’ fans to watch the game at Arden St, as it will be the first time our Victorian-based supporters will have seen us play for a very long time.”
Ticketing information will be available in the near future.
AAMI Community Series revised fixture
North Melbourne v Hawthorn
Saturday, March 6 - 4.10pm
Arden Street Oval
Click here to view the full 2021 AAMI Community Series fixture
Amarfio said its AFLW fixture against Carlton will still to go ahead this Saturday night at UTAS Stadium.
“The AFL has advised us the game will go ahead this weekend, with the distinction being it is a premiership season match and therefore not as ‘discretionary’ as an AFL pre-season match,” Amarfio added.
“It’s a must-win game for us and we hope to see as many North fans in Launceston as possible.”
