USA Rugby today posted updated Return to Play Guidelines for coaches and club administrators looking to host rugby activities through the current climate of COVID-19. While a return to normalcy looks to be on the horizon, the pandemic continues to impact our communities, therefore return to rugby plans must remain adapted with safe protocols.
SEE RETURN TO PLAY GUIDELINES »
First developed in May 2020 and updated over the summer, these most recent guidelines continue to reference advice from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), World Rugby, United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) and the USA Rugby Medical Committee. Additionally, USA Rugby consulted with its High Performance programs following COVID-19 adapted camps this fall and a number of community organizations with effective safety procedures in their own return to play.
It is important to reiterate that the guidelines are not official medical advice and clubs should continue to consult local health departments in their city or county. Some regional rugby unions, governing bodies, schools, colleges and universities have also developed individual return to play guidelines for rugby and contact sports. Considering the variances of COVID-19 regulations in different corners of the country, coaches and club administrators are encouraged to also reference those documents as they may be more focused on safe sport practice in your area.
Notable updates to the most recent USA Rugby guidelines include general changes to definitions and contact sport advice as the pandemic has evolved, inclusion of new testing and vaccine information, mask wearing and positive case management advice and a suggested gradual training plan for clubs looking to get back to contact rugby, both intra-squad and inter-squad. Additionally included is the World Rugby “Activate” program, aimed at reconditioning players for contact. While a safe return to play has been understandably focused on limiting the spread of COVID-19, gradually returning to safe contact rugby following the hiatus is also very important to consider.
The Return to Play document will continue to be updated more frequently this spring, as the COVID-19 pandemic requirements and restrictions are projected to change more steadily. These guidelines will be available on the homepage of www.usa.rugby where members are encouraged to continually reference this live document and check the updated date to ensure any downloaded documents they have are the most recent.
As has been the case during the highs and lows of the pandemic, coaches and club administrators are asked to continue being diligent and accountable when planning a return to play. It is on all of us to exemplify the values of rugby and prioritize the safety and well-being of our teammates, friends and family.
Any additional questions regarding return to play can be directed to the USA Rugby National Office at membership@usa.rugby.
