PLAYERS and parents collectively cheered as community football returned in force over the weekend following the big wet which has resulted in ground closures across the state.

The cheers resonated around the home ground of the Orara Valley Dingoes as the gates re-opened following months of unprecedented rain.

Football clubs are run by the goodwill of volunteers and it’s been a struggle for clubs across NSW.

Orara Valley Dingoes committee member Danny Roher is hoping for more sunshine and light at the end of the tunnel.

“We’ve had a lot of rain and a lot of field closures so it’s good to get all the kids back out,” he said.

“We’ve been trying and struggling through and a lot of the other clubs are in the same boat.

“We’re getting through it and the pitch is really starting to look good.”

By David WIGLEY