As we progress into august and as things move towards a new normal, we hope you are keeping safe and well whilst adapting to the updates and changes taking place in society. Return to play guidance by Hockey Wales locates us in Phase 2: non-contact socially distanced hockey activity with a maximum of 30 people on a pitch at once. At first glance implementing this may appear straightforward however in working with Cardiff Met Sport and Sport Wales as facility providers, there are a large number of considerations that come with complex organisation of their nature. At the present time, the Club committee and appointed COVID-19 officers are working through government, NGB and facility guidance to create a safe, phased return to training for Senior, Junior and BUCS environments. To echo the recent words of the CEO for Sport Wales: “We are asking club members to remain patient as there are several challenges still to overcome. Particularly the sign-off and implementation of detailed operational procedures and risk mitigation plans that NGBs, the Club and facility providers are required to have in place.”
In working closely with facility providers we have been able to facilitate a return to training for the Mens and Ladies performance squads during August, under a closely monitored environment to ensure the safety of the players, staff, facility providers and those who they are in close contact with on a daily basis. Should initial closely monitored steps prove positive, the intention is to return BUCS Performance squads and C&MHC club training from September, pending approval of required documentation, protocols and providing government and NGB guidance permits. There is currently no anticipated date for the return of the Junior academy, an update will be provided once we receive communication from Cardiff Met Sport.
We will endeavour to update club members on a regular basis via team coaches, remaining committed to providing all members with an opportunity to get back on the pitch and experience the benefits of playing Hockey at Cardiff & Met HC.
While the work continues, we eagerly anticipate seeing you all back on the pitch soon as is possible and recommend club members take time to read the guidance provided by Hockey Wales.
Cardiff & Met HC Committee
Key Dates (as of 5/8/2020)
- Saturday 27th September – England Hockey National League start date
- Saturday 24th October – West Hockey League start date
- Saturday 31st October – South Wales Womens Hockey League start date (Tentative – TBC)