The IRFU wish to advise clubs and schools of rugby activity permitted, as per Level 5 of the Government of Ireland Plan For Living With COVID-19. These guidelines are effective from midnight Wednesday, 21 October to midnight Tuesday, 1 December 2020.
Level 5 Guidelines For Rugby Clubs & Schools
TRAINING:
No training should take place, with the exception of non-contact training for school aged children, outdoors in pods of 15.
All other training activities should be individual only.
Exercise within 5 kilometres of home.
*Details on exemptions are available below.
MATCHES:
No matches permitted in clubs or schools.
FACILITIES:
Shower & Changing facilities to remain closed.
SPECTATORS:
Spectators are not permitted.
Parents/Guardians attending in a safeguarding /supervisory capacity are not classified as a spectator. However, strict social distancing and public health guidelines should be adhered to at all times. In that context, one parent/guardian per child is permitted to attend should they consider it necessary. (Source: Sport Ireland Practical Guidance on Covid-19 Measures)
All Parents/Guardians must complete a Pre-Rugby Personal Assessment Declaration Form prior to arriving on site.
HEALTH & SAFETY:
Clubs must ensure their COVID-19 Health & Safety Plan is up to date in line with the latest government guidelines.
A Risk Assessment should be carried out where appropriate for activities not previously included.
*EXEMPTIONS:
Non-contact training can continue for school aged children, outdoors in pods of 15, including tag or touch rugby.
These exemptions apply to all schools rugby players in primary and post-primary schools as well as club players from mini to U18 age-grades (inclusive).
Taking school aged children to permitted training is exempt from domestic travel restrictions.
Remember the following:
- Pre-Rugby Personal Assessment Declaration to be completed before every session.
- Training is on an opt-in basis for all participants.
- Strict avoidance of gatherings before or after.
- Strict adherence to 2 metre physical distancing before and after, on the sidelines and avoidance of team huddles.
- Hand sanitisation facilities available at all times.
- Good coughing and sneezing etiquette.