Players to commence compliant fitness training

Ongar Rugby Football Club has considered carefully the new Government regulations regarding sports training, which come into effect on Monday, June 1st 2020. The Club has also considered the Rugby Football Union's (RFU) guidance for member clubs (see link at the bottom of the article).

The Club has assessed the risk of increased Covid 19 transmission against the physical, emotional and mental health benefits of enabling players to train in a compliant and safe environment.

The current Year 11s (under 16s) have been profoundly affected by the decision to close schools in mid-March and the cancellation of exams. They have little or no formal schooling since then and limited opportunity to interact with their peers. In consultation with parents, players and coaches it was felt that this age group would benefit in an number of different ways from commencing fitness training with their team mates.

The under 16s will therefore commence fitness training from Monday, June 1st 2020 on its pitch at Ongar Community Sports Club on Love Lane.

A full risk assessment and operational plan has been developed, reviewed and agreed by the Club's Committee. The Club's Safeguarding Officer has consulted with Essex Rugby's Safeguarding Manager and modifications have been made to the operational plan. Ongar Community Sports Club have given their consent for the rugby pitch to be used.

The players will be organised into groups of five (5) players plus a coach to be within the total of six (6) permitted.

The operational plan is considered to be compliant with Government regulations and RFU guidance but realistically cannot be 100% fool-proof. Part of the plan is that parents have been asked to read, sign and return a Letter of Consent that sets out clearly protocols for compliant management of training sessions and their and their sons' responsibilities.

The Club is aware that the sight of a seemingly large group of players and coaches training together at Love Lane could be a cause of concern and possible misunderstanding by members of the general public. So, at each training session a Club officer will be available to answer any questions from members of the general public (at an appropriate social distance).

If any individual has any questions or concerns about the training sessions please contact us via the contact link on this website.

If any parent of a boy in current Year 11 or 10 would like their son to join the Club and participate in these training sessions please contact the coaches via the U16s page on this website.

It is anticipated that the Men's rugby team will also commence fitness training later this month, which will also be planned in compliance with prevailing Government regulations and RFU guidance.

https://www.englandrugby.com/participation/running-your-club/coronavirus