Port Adelaide players have been training in small groups and abiding by social distancing requirements since returning to Alberton Oval on Monday.

Port Adelaide Football Club has welcomed the exemption for AFL training handed down this afternoon by the Commissioner of Police Grantley Stevens.

Port Adelaide chief executive Keith Thomas has thanked Mr Stevens and the South Australian State Government for this decision.

“This afternoon’s decision is a very significant gesture from the State Government and on behalf of the club we are very grateful for this exemption,” Mr Thomas said.

“The decision is important for a number of reasons, not least of all that it will allow our players and staff to remain at home with their families in at least the short-term as we prepare for the re-start of the AFL season on an equal footing with all other clubs.

“We understand this exemption comes with strict protocols and conditions. We totally respect this and have always maintained that the health and safety of our players, staff and the broader community is paramount.

“Port Adelaide understands it has a clear obligation as a high profile organisation to be a leader in this space and we take this responsibility very seriously.

“We are very proud of the way our health authorities have addressed this global pandemic and the manner in which the people of South Australia has enabled the State to be in the position we are today.”