Magic, the 2018 champions, told coaches and players of the change before the new season was finalised on May 24 by the Northern NSW Football board. A 13-round season, likely to be held behind closed doors, is set to start in July. It replaces an 18-round season but a top-five finals series remains.

The league was suspended in the week leading up to the opening round in March.

Given the financial damage to sponsors and the likelihood of no gate or canteen takings from games, clubs have had to review their budgets and many have slashed player payments.

Lake Macquarie's coaches and players declared they would forfeit all pay this year to get their side on the park.

Broadmeadow's committee has implemented a blanket policy of no payments this season and Richards was pleased with the response at the club's first training session last Thursday night at Speers Point.

"We didn't think it would be very fair if some got paid and some didn't, so the club decided we will all miss out," Richards said.

"But it hasn't bothered anybody as such. We had a full session on Thursday night and everyone was there except for one, and the reason he didn't turn up was because of work, which is fine.

"Obviously they were a bit disappointed, but it's great just to see that the boys want to play and hang around each other.

"It's a bit heartwarming to see something like that. A lot of those guys could go to another club for the money, but they don't want to. They want to play, hang around each other and have a bit of fun, which is how it should be ... not picking up the ridiculous money that you can get."

He said they appreciated the club's position and "not one person raised anything about money" at training.

"It's a big club with a lot of coaches and juniors, the women are on board now as well, so you have to make sure everything is fair," he said. "The whole world has come undone with COVID. The sponsors can't sponsor and you can't get people in to watch the game, so the club is responsible. They want to make sure they are long term and not just for this year.

"There might be one or two who might have to roll off because of their work scenario, but at the moment none of the players, coaches or managers have pulled out.

"It was a good turnout at training and it was just good to get out and have a kick. I think they were glad to see each other. It was like an Old Boys' reunion. It was good to see them smiling again."