Season Update

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What a difference four months has made. At the start of 2020, our club was on the precipice of implementing an exciting schedule of events to celebrate the Melbourne Mustangs' 10 year anniversary. Today, Covid-19 has resulted in the indefinite suspension of Ice Hockey across Australia and around the globe. 
 
Our survival as a club will depend on our members and sponsors. Fortunately, last year was one of our best financial results, due to the tremendous support of our members through membership sales and merchandise. Seeing our stands full of orange and black last season was testimony to the unrivalled passion of our members and fans. 
 
With social distancing expected to continue during the coming months, the impact on our sport is enormous. The impact on our club is significant, and 2020 will be one of our biggest challenges. However, your membership of the Mustangs is our greatest strength and we need your support now more than ever, with membership revenue critical for the club to battle through this time. Our Mustangs family spirit is the foundation of our club and we will keep growing it together. 
 
I know that all members would like more certainty on our plans for 2020, but the situation is still evolving. The Mustangs are working with the AIHL, IHA, IHV, O'Brien Icehouse and other clubs to examine a range of options and we hope to provide you with more information in the near future. We ask for your patience for a few more weeks, as we review a range of options for members which we will communicate via email as soon as the future landscape becomes clearer.
 
The big question we can’t yet answer is when we will have an opportunity to play Ice Hockey. The Mustangs are as keen as mustard to get back on the ice. However, our priority must be the safety of our players, volunteers, committee and fans. We eagerly await our governing bodies to provide playing guidelines and for the commencement date of a revised schedule. Be assured Max is keeping our boys fit and ready to hit the ice. The Mustangs online store is open, we have new merchandise lines available so please check it out. We will continue to keep you updated via our online platforms. 
 
With your support we can move forward and keep your club as strong as we possibly can. On behalf of everyone at the club, we are looking forward to joining you in cheering our boys back onto the ice. 
 
Stay safe and as healthy as possible, be kind to one another during these unprecedented times.
 
John Belic
President
 
 
Q&As
 
Will we get a regular AIHL season?  
No. Although restrictions are starting to ease in some states, large gatherings are still prohibited and likely to remain so for some months. But we live in the hope of a modified competition. A number of options are being explored with AIHL and other clubs. The situation is still fluid and evolving.    
 
Can we see some games online? 
A number of sporting codes are currently playing games in empty stadiums. Unfortunately, this is not feasible for our sport. With some states maintaining closed borders, players are unable to travel for games. 
 
Can we just play a Mustangs v Ice tournament?
Possibly. We are in discussions to determine the viability of this option. If we can arrive at a suitable solution that is consistent with official health advice and above all safe, we may be able to do this in 2020.

What happens if there’s no hockey at all?
If you have purchased a 2020 membership and should there be no hockey at all this season your membership will automatically roll over into 2021. 
 
What about member packs?
Pack production was placed on hold at the start of the Covid19 shutdown. If we have a season, packs will be completed and made available for collection. If not, membership packs will cancelled this year and will roll over into 2021 as per the above note on membership.
 
Can I get a refund?
We understand that many people will be undergoing financial hardship at this time. If you would like a refund, please email enquiry@melbournemustangs.com.au to request one. Thank you for your patience in these difficult times. Your ongoing support helps keep the Melbourne Mustangs a strong and vibrant club.