CA COVID-19 Guidance Reviewed in light of DCMS Guidance

Ian Vincent 26th March (CA Official News)

The CA’s Covid-19 guidance for clubs and players has been updated in the light of the latest DCMS guidance. A risk assessment has been provided to underpin it, which clubs are invited to adapt for their own use. The practical changes from the version published on 3rd March are that the scope of organised activity has widened; a recommendation to wash equipment added; and the ban on spectators noted.

Several enquiries have been received about how the guidance applies to club “roll-up” sessions. Unless they fit within the definition of “formally organised outdoor sport”, i.e have been publicised in advance and are run under the direction of a manager/organiser who is present and responsible for ensuring that it is conducted in a COVID-19 secure manner, then the outdoor gathering limit of 6 (until Step 3 of the roadmap) applies. This means that players should play in groups of no more than 6, and should not interact with those in other groups while at the club.

ADVICE TO PLAYERS

1. Do not go to the club if you are experiencing any symptoms of a cold or flu, in particular a cough or high temperature. Use the NHS helpline and seek advice. For your own protection, follow the advice about self-isolation if you are, or are living with, someone in one of the vulnerable groups.
2. Familiarise yourself with your club’s rules and respect its risk assessment.
3. All players must observe social distancing at all times unless they are in the same household or support bubble. Particular care should be taken in all doubles, including alternate stroke Association Croquet and in Golf Croquet games.
4. Any activity should be in line with the Government’s social distancing measures at all times, including when going to and departing from a lawn. Consequently, do not shake hands before or after a game, nor congretate in groups of more than six.
5. Wash your hands and clean any equipment you use, such as hoops, balls and club mallets, before and after you play.
6. When setting out and taking in a court, only one person should handle any particular hoop or the peg.
7. Clean padlocks, keys and door handles before and after use.
8. Avoid using toilets wherever possible and clean after use.
9. Wear face coverings when indoors.
10. Use the court booking system if your club provides one, rather than turning up in the hope of being able to play or practise.
11. If possible, dress appropriately prior to travelling to the club, rather than changing there.
12. Bring any food or drink you might need.
13. For golf croquet, players should agree the score at the end of each scoring turn. Personal counters should be used to keep count of bisques/extra strokes.
14. Avoid using movable chairs as far as possible, otherwise clean them before and after use.