In a statement released recently, SA Rugby has advised amateur clubs, universities, associate members and schools that the governing body’s Covid-19 committee (CovCom) has approved a proposal to allow teams to return to training under certain strict conditions, although a return to play will not be permitted in this year.
The resumption of amateur rugby training follows the gazetting of new regulations on sport by the Departments of Basic Education and Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation.
“Earlier this month the Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation released a statement to be read in conjunction with the gazetted regulations that said athletes, support staff and officials involved in non-professional sport do not have to undergo Covid-19 testing before returning to training, but only had to ensure a robust screening system was in place for training to commence.
“They do not have to submit their operational return to training plans to the minister for approval.
We decided to approve the resumption of training for the SA Rugby and the Provincial Union Elite Player Development programmes, rugby at amateur and community clubs and for associations affiliated to provincial unions and SA Rugby, but on certain strict conditions.”
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The conditions include, among other things: financial considerations, control measures to curb the transmission of the virus, as well as adherence to requirements of the SA Rugby Return to Train and Play Guidelines for amateur rugby.
The rules are required to be enforced by provincial unions. All rugby bodies have been instructed to follow the integrated return to training framework as an injury mitigation strategy.
It requires four weeks of fitness and strength training, followed by four weeks of gradual integration of contact rugby skills.
Upon the update from SA Rugby, the Advertiser contacted local amateur rugby governing body, the Valke Rugby Union, concerning a way forward for local clubs, including East Rand United and the Makopano Boksburg Rugby Club.
“It was with great enthusiasm and anticipation that SA Rugby announced the return to train of amateur rugby on October 15,” said Valke CEO Ettienne de Lange.
“The Valke general council meeting was held on October 19, where all clubs and schools were informed of the return to play protocols and regulations. We hope to be back on the field shortly and wish everybody a safe return to the game we love.”
A set of guidelines will be circulated to all teams wishing to return to training through their provincial unions.
These will include signing indemnification and declaration of health forms; the appointment of a compliance officer; registration of all players, officials and staff on a club data base; screening and education of players, officials and staff; cleaning and sanitation of training venues, apparel and facilities; and to ensure no spectators are permitted at training or matches.
Advice on the resumption of competitive play at community level will be confirmed in due course.
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