No one should need reminding that from 2nd December we have come out of the National lockdown and in our case have been classified as Tier 2, which offers just a small loosening of restrictions. Johnson has indicated that these tiers will be reviewed on 16th December when there is a possibility that S Cambs “could” be placed is Tier 1 should circumstances be favourable.

More surprising and very welcome news this week was that the Government has approved the submission from the RFU to return to 15 a side contact rugby with some adaptations.

We are now at Stage E on the Return to Rugby roadmap. Training to this new full contact format can begin from the 2nd December and clubs may now resume friendly fixtures from the 18th December. Our Director of Rugby, Will Cotterill, and Chair of Mini & Youth, Mark Campbell, are working with all sections at the club to ensure a safe, phased and appropriate approach during the next few weeks and months for all players.

The prime adaptations to the laws are as follows:

There will be no scrums or mauls in the game.
Instead of a scrum, the game will begin with a free kick which cannot be taken quickly.
A minimum of five and a maximum of seven players in the lineout.

Full details can be found here and summarised here “Law variations – Video explainer”

This is tremendously encouraging and exciting news for all adult and M&Y groups. However, it is important to understand that the virus is still very present in the community and as we open up further, it is vital that we strictly follow all the Covid 19 protocols until the virus no longer presents a threat.
It would appear that since the start of the pandemic, there have not been any recorded cases of Covid 19 directly linked to the Club for which I thank all members for their adherence to the rules we have implemented.

We will now work towards getting all players fit for full contact competition (although tag only for U8s and below) and the resumption of competitive games at the Davey Field.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or Emma Birkby if they refer to Mini and Youth.

Best wishes,

Tony Roberts
2nd December 2020