Newcastle's Sam Poolman will join the long list of sidelined sportspeople with this year's Super Netball competition postponed until at least June 30.
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Poolman, a defender with the Sydney-based Giants, was eyeing off the opening round of the national league on May 2 but escalating concerns surrounding the global coronavirus pandemic have halted proceedings.
The Super Netball League Commission (SNLC) made the announcement on Monday.
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SNLC released a statement saying the 2020 season "has been deferred as part of wider efforts to protect the health and wellbeing of fans, athletes, staff and the broader community".
"The decision was made by the Super Netball League Commission taking into account the latest COVID-19 medical and government advice.
"Given the rapidly-evolving landscape, the commission has determined that the start of the season will be deferred and will not commence prior to 30 June.
"The SNLC will review the situation before the end of May and, based on the latest medical advice and government regulation, will determine whether the season start date should be extended out further.
"Club training will be suspended, and Suncorp Super Netball league management will work with clubs and the Australian Netball Players' Association in relation to international and interstate-based athletes returning home.
"It is entirely understandable that there are several athletes that would like to return home to family at this time."
Meanwhile, Netball Australia will work with the "nations involved" in the 2020 Quad Series and Constellation Cup to determine if those tournaments go ahead as scheduled in September and October respectively.
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