NSW Rugby in conjunction with Rugby Australia has earmarked a return to play in July, based on current health advice from the NSW Government.
The community rugby season remains on hold, but with anticipated easing of government-imposed COVID-19 restrictions in the coming months – in particular the potential lifting of public health orders on 29 June – it’s hoped that the community game can return quickly thereafter.
Any decision to ultimately return is subject to government advice and approval, with the safety and well-being of players, parents, volunteers and community paramount.
NSW Rugby CEO, Paul Doorn said that Rugby Australia and state unions had been collaborating closely to formulate a plan that will see the community game return as soon as possible.
“There’s detailed planning underway as we continue to liaise with government around if and when community sport can resume,” Doorn said.
“We’re preparing age appropriate guidelines and session plans to assist clubs with the re-start to play.
“We’ll be assisting clubs in competitions across the state to make sure they’re prepared for a return to play if that becomes a reality.
“This is an exciting development for our rugby community, but there’s still plenty of work to be done and we’ll be reliant on advice and approval from the government before any official start date is announced.
“COVID-19 is a complex, evolving and unprecedented situation that we are all facing as individuals, families, businesses, sporting organisations at all levels, teams, leaders, and as an entire community together.”
In addition to social distancing, restrictions and controls at training and match day will remain around food hygiene, restricted spectator numbers, dressing room access, and ensuring no one attends who is ill, has flu-like symptoms or has recently returned from overseas.
As NSWRU become aware of changes to conditions for training and play, they will be communicated to affiliates and clubs so they can plan accordingly.
