WITH organizers cancelling tournaments left and right, the Central Visayas Football Association has decided not to hold or join in football tournaments until the coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak clears up.

“Being more important than football, everyone’s health is the utmost priority for us. We encourage each person to take precautionary measures to safeguard everyone’s safety and well-being in accordance with the guidelines set by competent authorities. In due time, the association is confident that we would all be safe from this pandemic and once again unite in the sport we love,” CVFA president Rodney Orale said in a message.

Aside from holding football matches in the region, the CVFA also participates in Philippine Football Federation organized tournaments.

Earlier, the AboitizLand Football Cup cancelled its matches for March 14, 15 and 29, while the Thirsty Football Cup decided to cancel its planned April 3, 4 and 5 games.

The AboitizLand Boys 16 final between the Abellana National School and the Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu was supposed to be played at the Sacred Heart School-Ateneo de Cebu field on March 14, while two Men’s Open division 1 matches were scheduled on March 15. There was also a scheduled 45-Above final between Don Bosco Alumni and KNF United on March 15. The AboitizLand Football Cup was supposed to end on March 29 with the Boys 18 final and the final two games of the Men’s Open Division 1.

“The safety of the athletes, coaches and the entire football community is our topmost priority,” the committee said in a brief statement sent to coaches.

Meanwhile, organizers of the Thirsty Cup, Cebu’s longest-running football festival, announced, “We regret to inform you that the 17th Thirsty Football Cup is postponed until further notice. No official date has been set for the new schedule and we will keep everyone updated.” (ML)