New England Rugby Union (NERU) clubs have largely been understanding following the decision to move the grand final from its traditional venue of Bellevue Oval to Tamworth's Scully Park.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
Albies co-coach Scott Waterson said from their club's perspective, they are "supportive" of NERU's decision.
"While the grand final has traditionally been hosted in Armidale, this is as far from a 'normal' year as there has been, and we are supportive of NERU's pro-active response to showcasing the pinnacle of our rugby season," he said.
READ ALSO:
"UNE's Bellevue Rugby Stadium is undoubtedly the premier venue in the New England and the facilities and playing surface are second to none.
"However, with the limitations on crowds and catering due to the apocalypse, the neutral venue and facilities at Scully Park provide the perfect venue to allow the rugby public the chance to have a pie and a beer and watch some terrific local finals rugby.
"The feedback from within our club and the local rugby community has been broadly supportive.
"The change adds another wee bit of excitement and novelty to the 2020 competition."
Glen Innes Elkettes captain Sarah Byrne said she was a little disappointed to see it moved but understood the decision.
"It's a shame because Armidale is the centre," she said.
"But Scully Park is an unreal field."
Walcha Rams coach Hyde Thomson was thrilled with the decision, as Tamworth has been almost a "second home ground over the years" for the Rams, who normally compete in the Central North Rugby competition and have a healthy rivalry with the Tamworth Pirates.
"I was quite happy with it," Thomson said.
"I think it's a terrific idea and terrific venue.
"Obviously it makes a bit of sense at this time with the limitation on the crowd.
"I've got no problems at all."
