COVID-19 Update (25 Sep 2020)

As we head in to the weekend, we want to share the latest on where we are following the Government’s shift in guidance earlier this week.

The DCMS has reviewed and approved version 3 of our RTP, subject to updating it to the revised guidance. V3 was sent prior before the announcement so we will get to work and push this through ASAP.

They have confirmed junior hockey (17 and under) can continue under the new guidance, and we will be working to get the season started as soon as is practical. As we want to return under the safest possible conditions, games will be played behind closed doors. BRHA South has been working tirelessly on a Covid-secure facility plan that has also been reviewed by the DCMS. This region will be the pilot and the plan tweaked where necessary before rolling out to other regions. It is a process that needs to be tried and tested, and cannot be rushed so we thank you for your understanding.

Furthermore, we have confirmation that senior players (18+) are able to form training bubbles on the rink with the strict understanding that they do no mix. This allows senior teams to form two bubbles of six. The RTP will be updated and published early next week so that senior teams have a maximum of 12 (2 x 6) at any one time, and this must include coaches and other participants registered to the team. We will be working with the regional heads and the facilities to introduce measures to partition the rink in two. Competitive games are suspended until further notice. No individuals will be authorised to wait on the bench or around the rink, and spectators will be prohibited on the basis that safeguarding is not compromised.

We hope this provides some reassurance as we head in to the weekend. It is an unprecedented time and we are constantly having to react and adapt. The BRHA National Exec is doing everything in our power to push on but we must all remain mindful of the times we are in. Safety must not be compromised.

A further update will be posted in the coming days once we release the new version of the RTP and require teams to update their RTP Acceptance and Risk Assessment forms.

Many thanks for your continued patience and support,

Dave McGill

Director & General Secretary

BRHA Limited

On behalf of the BRHA National Executive Committee