The following is a statement from Rugby Canada, regarding the impact of COVID 19 on rugby programming across our country:
Langford, BC — As we all navigate this unprecedented situation, we remain first and foremost committed to the health and safety of our members, supporters, players, coaches, officials and staff. In keeping with this commitment, and in conjunction with our Provincial member Unions, Rugby Canada has made the decision to suspend all sanctioned rugby activities nationally effective March 14 until at least April 10. These activities include all inter-Provincial and Club competitions and training sessions, international and domestic tours, and all training & education courses for officials & coaches. National Senior Teams & players may conduct some training preparation under the approval and supervision of Rugby Canada’s Chief Medical Officer, following the advice and guidance of the Sport Medicine Advisory Committee and National and Provincial health agencies. The suspension of activities will be reevaluated prior to April 10, and further communication to our membership will be made based on updated advisements from health authorities.
In conjunction with World Rugby, we continue to monitor the evolving situation around the globe, and will provide updates on international events and tours as decisions are made based on the best available information.
Rugby Canada CEO Allen Vansen stated, “The rugby community in Canada is brought together through the love of the game, which is founded on the principles of integrity, solidarity, and respect. As we navigate our way through this evolving situation, we thank the entire Canadian rugby community for their patience and understanding. We recognize the investment and commitment of our members, and are committed to providing the most updated information possible. While we all look forward to getting back on the pitch as soon as possible, we all have a collective responsibility to follow the recommendations of the appropriate health authorities, and strongly urge the entire community to do the same.”
“The health and well being of all who partake in our game, as well as support it, is paramount to us, ” said Tim Powers, Chair of the Rugby Canada Board of Directors. “For now rugby, like every other sport, rightly takes a break so we can all focus on ensuring the welfare of our fellow Canadians. We hope to soon be back on our pitches playing the game we love.”
For further information and advisement from Health Canada, please visit: www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html.
For updated information from the Sport Medicine Advisory Committee, please see: https://myemail.constantcontact.com/Update–3–Advisory-on-COVID-19.html?soid=1108867463200&aid=Xv-992-aw20