Volleyball England has today announced new guidance as a result of the British Government’s decision to move to the delay phase of its response to the COVID-19 coronavirus.
In line with government guidelines, which at present do not advise against this type of activity, people can and should continue to play volleyball where they consider it is safe to do so, but they should bear in mind the following.
For the foreseeable future, if a team is unable (for example, if players have to self-isolate or if a venue becomes unavailable) or unwilling to play a match as a result of the coronavirus no points will be deducted or fines issued, the match will instead be postponed to a later date. Due to the evolving situation we are not yet in a position to advise on the outcome of postponed matches that cannot be re-arranged. We want to ensure that decisions are well consulted and considered, so please be assured that updates will continue over the forthcoming weeks.
New government guidance stipulates that if you have coronavirus symptoms, however mild – either a new continuous cough or a high temperature – that you should stay at home for at least 7 days to protect others and help slow the spread of the disease. If this applies to you, please do not travel to a match or training session.
Members are reminded of our previous guidance:
- League regulations regarding pre and post-match handshakes have been relaxed for the foreseeable future. Referees, coaches and players are advised to wave or bow instead as a small, precautionary measure;
- Members are encouraged to hold off on greetings and congratulatory touches at matches;
- Clubs should keep in regular contact with the owners of their facility, to ensure they’re up to date with their guidance, and to ensure they have access to appropriate hand washing facilities;
- Teams should wash their hands before and after each match and training session;
- Follow NHS guidance to help stop the spread of germs (as follows):
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze;
- Put used tissues in the bin immediately;
- Regularly wash your hands with soap and water – use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available;
- Try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell.
As a further precautionary step, teams are advised to wash all equipment, particularly volleyballs, before and after matches and training sessions. Please seek instructions from the ball manufacturer on this (2 of the most common have been listed below):
- Mikasa: mikasasports.co.jp/e/support/maintenance
- Molten: www.molten.co.jp/sports/en/volleyball/product/volleyball/index.html
For general queries related to the coronavirus, please continue to follow government guidance. The latest information can be found using the links below:
We appreciate the coronavirus is creating an increasingly complex situation and we’re working hard to ensure we can provide appropriate solutions to your queries as soon as possible. Going forward, we will continue to monitor the situation, follow government advice and keep you updated.
No doubt some of you will have considered the financial implications of the coronavirus so it is worth stressing that Volleyball England cannot offer refunds for expenses incurred in relation to any events.
Although we will endeavor to reach as many members as possible, please share this update with your fellow club and team members and also keep an eye on our website, volleyballengland.org, for further updates.
We would like to reassure you that the health and welfare of everyone involved in volleyball is our priority and thank you for your patience as we work to provide appropriate guidance.
Sue Storey, Chief Executive of Volleyball England
