On Thursday 24 September, we shared the latest Government changes that netball organisations would have to adhere to (shown here). We’d like to thank all netball organisations that changed their plans so quickly to still enable netball to happen over the weekend.
We have now updated the Restart Guidance to reflect the most recent changes and version 2 is now available here. COVID-19 Officers are being directly contacted and we will be running forums next week which are open to representatives from clubs and leagues to further enhance understanding of the most recent changes.
Competition guidance has also been updated and is now available here. There are also hints and tips for league organisers to consider.
Within the Restart Guidance, further clarification on the rule of six is explained. Whether indoors or outdoors, the maximum number allowed per court remains at 30 including coaches and officials. If indoors, for 18 year olds and over, the group must be organised in discrete groups of six. Bubbles of six should not mix within the training session and there must be sufficient space to ensure bubbles do not come into close contact with one another. Coaches must maintain social distancing and not mix cross bubble. Competitive, seven-a-side matches are still not permitted indoors as this breaches the rule of six.
Other changes to highlight include:
- 18 year olds playing netball for the purpose of education, such as curriculum sport or playing for schools teams have been added to the exemption list. However in a community setting, once 18, they must adhere to the rule of six.
- It is no longer mandatory for match officials, first aiders and coaches to wear face coverings indoors, during activity. However, wearing face coverings is encouraged where possible and practical.
Our FAQs have now been updated to reflect the recent Government changes and are available here.
We are urgently seeking clarification regarding the restrictions in the North East and the impact on netball. Netball organisations in the North East should adhere to local guidance until further notice.
Thanks again to all those enabling netballers across the country to get on court, you are the netball heroes of 2020!
