With COVID restrictions being eased, the likelihood of Mid North Coast clubs returning to training is increasing with national competitions also mapping out plans to restart their seasons.

In a statement released by NSW Country Rugby Union Executive Officer, Stephen O'Brien, community sporting teams will be allowed to commence non-contact training however there are limitations.

"In line with the easing of COVID restrictions, community sport is to be allowed to commence non-contact training in groups of no more than 10," the statement said.

"The Premier announced that we would be able to take these steps from Friday May 15, which is great; however, there is some 'devil in the detail'.

"The Office of Sport has been in contact with our councils and have re-affirmed that the NSW Public Health order remains in force and community sports training/activities are not yet permitted on sports ovals."

The statement did however stress that there are significant bureaucratic hurdles that need to be overcome before plans can be set in motion.

"We need to deal with some inconsistencies between terminology, naming conventions and conditions that are in the various publications of national cabinet, the AIS and different states in terms of easing of restrictions," O'Brien said.

"Until the NSW State Government and NSW Office of Sport give community clubs and councils the green light we are not yet permitted to start training."

With Friday being the day set for lifting of numerous restrictions throughout NSW it is expected that tomorrow will see a framework proposed for the return of community sport training, made in conjunction with the Office of Sport, Premier's office and NSW Chief Medical Officer.

"The expectation is that the Office of Sport will far enough advanced with this [framework] by Friday, to allow the health order amendment to be passed and enable community sport to train again," the statement outlined.

"If this is lifted on Friday - NSWCRU will be sending out information regarding return to training/play to help clubs, competitions, match officials and coaches return to play as quickly and safely as possible."

The statement also outlined that July is still the likely return for country rugby union with further steps required to get players back out on the field.

The Kempsey Cannonballs have previously indicated to the Argus that they're more than prepared to return to play with sponsors continuing to support the club despite the lack of competition.

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