Good evening.

Several clubs have enquired about the impact on MNJ's Sunday, October 12 schedule of the State of Emergency declared by Acting New Jersey Governor Tahesha Way on Friday, October 10th that goes into effect at 10:00pm tonight, Saturday, October 11th.

Our League Handbook provides no specific guidance that covers such situations. As such, I can only refer you to the Press Release from the Governor's Office announcing Acting Governor Way's Executive Order #399, which states:

“Starting on Sunday, a dangerous coastal storm will begin to move past our state with extreme weather conditions for several counties, especially those on the Shore,” said Acting Governor Way. “In preparation for this storm, I am issuing a State of Emergency for all 21 counties out of an abundance of caution, authorizing our state’s emergency services personnel to activate as necessary. I urge all New Jerseyans to exercise caution, monitor local weather forecasts and warnings, stay informed on evacuation protocols, and remain off the roads unless absolutely necessary.”

I will not interpret these words on behalf of each club, as some clubs participate in multiple leagues throughout our state. However, if any MNJ member club determines that forecasted weather conditions present a sufficient threat to the health and safety of its players, coaches and spectators, no opposing MNJ member club can compel them to defy this State of Emergency to play games scheduled and previously confirmed to be played on Sunday, October 12th.

Given the statewide nature of this State of Emergency, state and local Offices of Emergency Management (OEMs) are empowered to direct state, county or municipal field permit issuers to close their facilities on Sunday, October 12th. Some field permit issuers may have already done so. Clubs mutually agreeing to defy this State of Emergency to play games scheduled and previously confirmed to be played on Sunday, October 12th do so at their own risk.

Also keep in mind, assigned referees also cannot be compelled to defy this State of Emergency to officiate games scheduled and previously confirmed to be played on Sunday, October 12th. They are independent contractors not employed by MNJ. Given that any postponements are in response to a declared State of Emergency, referee fees will not be owed for postponed matches if sufficient notice has been given.

Home clubs should notify opponents (via GotSport chat) and referee assignors once they have decided to postpone games scheduled and previously confirmed to be played on Sunday, October 12th. This should be done well in advance of scheduled start times. Away clubs should  likewise notify opponents (via GotSport chat) if they decline to play games scheduled and previously confirmed to be played on Sunday, October 12th.

The league will give wide latitude to clubs choosing to honor this State of Emergency. Please be safe and make informed decisions.

Best,