‘No protection, no sport’ is the rule in Switzerland
By ALAN THATCHER – Squash Mad Editor
Social media is abuzz with talk of clubs reopening their courts to end the coronavirus lockdown.
However, every club and federation will have to observe government guidelines on health and safety before opening the doors again.
Most federations appear to be advising clubs that solo drills will be allowed, and permitting two players to enter the court to carry out training routines while maintaining safe distancing protocols.
It’s squash, Jim, but not as we know it.
Squash Mad is in contact with numerous federations across the world as we continue to provide a platform to share ideas and information.
From Canada to Australia, we are seeing federations advising their clubs on how to safely begin a gradual return to business.
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In Switzerland, plans are in place to allow players back on court for training, with a comprehensive video guide of suggested routines that will be permissible.
Marcel Schranz from the Swiss Squash federation, wrote today:
On April 29, the Federal Council decided that from May 11, 2020 – subject to compliance with protection concepts and hygiene regulations – sports activities will be possible.
The following principle applies; No protection concept; no sport activity.
Sports associations, sports clubs and sports facilities must have a protection concept.
The protection concept from the sports associations (like Swiss Squash), which are the basis for all other concepts, can be found with the following link:
Special provisions for Squash
Non-Elite-/Top-athletes/players
The following applies for games and training for Non-Elite-/Top-athletes/players:
- Training alone (solo training) as well as games and exercises for two in which the distance regulation of 2 m can be observed are permitted. Swiss Squash provides a corresponding selection of “corona-compatible” game types at https://squashtraining.ch/
- Game types and exercises with 3 or more people, who are on the court at the same time, are not permitted until further notice.
Elite-/Top-athletes/players
Elite- and top-athletes can design their own training. However, COVID-19 Regulation 2 (818.101.24) must be observed.
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US Squash has published a significant document containing numerous guidelines.
However, there appears to be an assumption that all facilities will have staff on hand to monitor players entering and leaving the premises, and to carry out cleaning duties.
In many clubs in the UK, members have their own key and come and go as they please. Forcing these clubs to monitor activities round the clock will be an important issue.
Protecting your premises from possible litigation is another major issue faced by all clubs, and especially in the USA, it would appear.
“Cornyn and other Republicans are looking for ways to shield businesses and health providers from coronavirus-related claims while making exceptions for gross negligence…“
“Multiple lawsuits have already been filed against businesses including Wal-Mart, nursing homes, insurers and others. More are on the way.
“Ads from plaintiff’s attorneys are popping up on late-night TV seeking clients who’ve suffered damages in some way from the coronavirus outbreak.“
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Calling all clubs and federations, all over the world: Please get in touch and let us know what is happening in your region. Please leave a comment below.
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