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Returning to sport in the Columbia Basin
As governments across Canada are beginning to ease social restrictions due to COVID-19, the Province of B.C. released the Return to Sport Guidelines on June 1.
These guidelines, led by viaSport British Columbia, are consistent with the “go forward strategy” put forward by the Government of B.C. to reduce the frequency and intensity of human contact.
viaSportBC is providing up-to-date information and resources to make the decisions around returning to sport as clear as possible. These resources are available viaSport.ca/return-sport and will be updated regularly as we move through the phases of B.C.’s restart.
Based on these guidelines, each B.C. Provincial Sport Organization must develop sport specific guidelines which must be approved by their Board of Directors.
Local sport organizations will then develop their own local / context specific guidelines, which it is recommended are approved by their Board of Directors.
There will be a number of new procedures, potentially some short-term rule changes, and other modifications before participants begin training.
Given the diversity of sport offerings, each sport’s return will look different depending on the amount and intensity of contact, the facilities requirements, age and competition level, indoor/ outdoor, and amount of shared equipment.
viaSport Columbia Basin’s James Brotherhood says, “While thrilled to be re-introducing sport back into our communities, it is important to start cautiously, rather than rush back because we can. Athletes and coaches should utilize this period to reinforce the value of sport in our communities by ensuring each participant experiences joy and personal growth through their chosen sports.”
viaSport Columbia Basin has established webinars to support local sport organizations, athletes, coaches and parents throughout the Columbia Basin to navigate these changes to keep our communities safe.
The first webinar is Thursday, June 6, at 6 p.m. PT/7 p.m MT. For up to date information and to register.
viaSport Columbia Basin is an initiative of viaSport British Columbia to support athletes, coaches and local sport organizations in the Columbia Basin to create quality sport experiences in our communities and help all participants reach their potential. It is led by James Brotherhood who is based in Rossland.
Lead image: KEYSA soccer at Cranbrook’s Moir Park. e-KNOW file photo
