City hopes Phase 3 rules lead to sports play

The City of Vernon is hoping the latest COVID-19 safety guidelines for amateur sports will allow athletes to return to local pitches, diamonds, courts and arenas.

Earlier this week, the viaSport Phase 3 Return to Sport Guidelines for B.C. were released, providing recommendations for provincial and local sport organizations to “carefully increase the number of (personal) contacts and (physical) contact intensity in sport.”

The guidelines call for safe and modified activities to increase training opportunities and add league and game play, while continuing to abide by current public health orders.

“Throughout the pandemic, we have heard from many people about the important role that sport plays in their physical and mental well-being,” said Doug Ross, the city’s recreation services director. “The health and safety of our citizens is our absolute top priority, so we are pleased to see these new guidelines.”

Ross said the guidelines take into account the safety of players, parents, coaches, volunteers and community members.

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In Phase 3, increased levels of competition are being allowed, if done within established cohorts.

Physical distancing is still encouraged when possible and gatherings must not exceed 50 people.

Greater Vernon Recreation Services is now revising its COVID-19 safety plan to align with the updated guidelines.

Once the plan is approved, it will be distributed to all user groups who are, in turn, expected to update their safety plan.

“We understand and appreciate the work that volunteers are having to do to prepare their plans; some of them for a second time,” said Ross. “With the provincial orders and so many different guidelines for each of the various sports to navigate, we wish to thank our user groups for their cooperation, understanding and patience as we work to update our own plan, and in turn review theirs in a timely manner.”