The Mininera and District Football League's Under 16.5 Division will only include six teams after Glenthompson Dunkeld, and Lismore Derrinallum withdrew due to insufficient numbers.

Glenthompson Dunkeld is the more surprising absentee, having had its Under 16.5 team reach the grand final in 2019.

But Mininera and District Football League president John Box said the decline in junior players follows a nationwide trend developed during COVID-19.

"It's happening across the country," he said.

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"Before coronavirus came in, we were looking at having 10 Under 16.5 sides. That's the best we've ever had.

"It's quite obvious coronavirus has had an impact on junior football but once football gets going i think the numbers will be alright."

Box also said he was hopeful the player shortage would only be a short-term problem and encouraged the remaining teams to forge ahead with the season.

"It's very disappointing for the league. But I hope the six junior sides stay with us for this year. The clubs that pulled out said they think they'll have numbers for the following year," he said.

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Mininera and District Football League is now preparing a revised fixture to minimise the travelling required for the teams.

Box said having junior footballers was crucial to clubs' prosperity.

"Junior football is where you get your workers, it's where you get your new generation from, and you get their families involved."

"It's not the fault of the AFL, but if they could relax a bit on the area agreements and the permits and stop a bit of paperwork, it would make it a bit easier.

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