While there have been minimal confirmed cases in the Upper Hunter, the AFL sent out a directive to halt all games, practice matches and training until May 31.

Grassroots formats received the news prior to the national competition suspending its season, and were understandably shaken by the news.

Following the recent announcement of gym closures as part of the national shutdown, the prevention of training has made life difficult for coaches and players hoping to remain fit ahead of the season, should it restart.

Coach of the Muswellbrook Cats' women's side, Megan Kropp, said the news was tough to handle, but they are still looking forward to running onto the field later this year.

"There was a growing sense of excitement among the team as we had begun to solidify positions and understand how we would all be working together on the field," she explained.

"We have encouraged players to maintain their individual fitness and skill development to help them stay physically and mentally healthy during these times of uncertainty."

The sentiment was similar from men's coach Steve Mullane, who revealed just how quickly things changed in terms of instructions.

He said within the space of a day, the message had turned from players having to bring their own water bottles to the entire Hunter Central Coast league shutting down.

While admitting it was a cliche, he said the team were in incredible shape ahead of round one, and was devastated their hard work over the past few months would go unrewarded.

"The season was only a couple of weeks away and to have the pin pulled is pretty disappointing given all the work we've put in," he said.

"But, there's not much we can do about it, it's not our call."

However, both coaches acknowledged there were bigger factors at play and the decision was made in the interest of wider community.