Q&A: COVID-19 New Zealand Rugby club rugby participation
What has New Zealand Rugby postponed?
• All Club and Community Rugby has been postponed until 18 April 2020, effective immediately.
• At this stage, full-contact training can resume from Monday, 13 April 2020
Why has this decision been made?
We love rugby as much as you do so please be assured this decision wasn’t taken lightly. The well-being of our players, coaches, referees, volunteers, supporters and the wider New Zealand community is our top priority. And, while this will be disappointing for many, postponing rugby for the time being is in everyone’s best interests. Playing rugby and contact training involves close proximity which brings a high-risk level of spreading viruses. Postponing Rugby is also about protecting our rugby spectators. We can’t limit the number of people who turn up to support their team and have no record of their attendance should we need to contact them regarding potential Covid-19 exposure.
We encourage you to do what is best for you and your communities to keep them safe and healthy
What are the basics that I need to know?
• All rugby matches and full contact training postponed until Saturday, 18 April. At this stage, full-contact training can resume from Monday, 13 April
• Non-contact training activities can continue with sensible hygiene protocols observed
• Use personal water bottles – don’t share with others
• Ensure rugby equipment is regularly cleaned
• Maintaining fitness is encouraged
• Referee and coach education courses and other meetings of less than 40 people can continue under Ministry of Health guidelines for Covid-19
• Registering for rugby can continue online
• Look after your teammates, whanau and communities.
• Stay informed. We will provide regular updates as needed • Stay at home if you are feeling unwell
• Regularly wash hands
• Follow the Ministry of Health Guidelines: www.health.govt.nz
• Do what is best for you and your communities to keep them safe and healthy