Kings and Hawks to temporarily relocate

Following the recent outbreak of COVID-19 cases in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, and the subsequent border closures to the Greater Sydney and Illawarra regions, the NBL today announced that the Brydens Lawyers Sydney Kings and the The Hawks will temporarily relocate to Albury on December 26 for the next few weeks.

With reported case numbers continuing to decline in NSW, the move is a precautionary one; it is necessary to ensure the health and safety of the players and staff, but also to allow for ease of travel to other states so both clubs will be available to play their first away games of the season.

NBL Commissioner Jeremy Loeliger said: “Given the ongoing situation in Sydney we have decided it’s prudent for both clubs to relocate to Albury after Christmas and they will be accommodated and train there under strict COVID protocols. 

“This will give us time to assess and work through the next steps required as we prepare for the start of the NBL Season on January 10. We hope the restrictions in Sydney and resulting border closures will be eased as quickly as possible but we will need to stay flexible in our approach and we will continue to be guided by the advice of the relevant state health authorities. 

“While we work through any potential changes to the season schedule, the intent and expectation is that both the Kings and Hawks play their 14 home games in their respective home venues. 

“I want to thank both the Kings and Hawks and all of their players and staff for their patience and understanding as we navigate this latest challenge. We are strongly committed to putting on the best season we can in front of our fans and supporting all of our clubs and players over the coming weeks and months.”

Sydney members and fans should be comforted knowing the expectation remains that the Kings will play a full 14-game home season here in Sydney. Any potential changes to the season schedule will be communicated in the coming weeks if necessary.

Both Clubs will continue to monitor the situation and work with the NSW Government to ensure their loyal members and fans are able to attend home games in a COVID-safe environment.