Dear ECHO Folk,
I hope you and your families are all well. Here is a quick update from ECHO regarding the present status of our (lack of) activities.
We continue to monitor the Covid-19 situation and review communication from the Australian & Victorian governments and Hockey Victoria. With the case rate of Covid-19 infections falling dramatically around Australia the authorities are turning their attention to the gradual reduction of social distancing restrictions. While there is nothing concrete yet, community sport has been raised as one activity that may be in earlier rounds of restriction easing.
At present, Hockey Victoria has suspended all its competitions until further notice. However, they have been working on scenarios as to how to operate the season once the all-clear is given from the authorities. HV is hoping to start the 2020 season two weeks after the Government authorities give the all-clear for that type of activity. There are still many details needed as to how that would actually occur and the steps that would be taken to minimise the risk of the spread of Covid-19, which are yet to be provided. Our intention as a club would be to mobilise our hockey activities as quickly as possible when the time comes, while strictly adhering to Government directives. What controls we would put in place to manage risk will be provided ahead of any activities commencing.
We will endeavour to monitor the situation, keep plans updated and communicate with our constituents as best we can. I am optimistic that we will still be able to enjoy a winter season of hockey in 2020, albeit significantly modified.
In the meantime, we would encourage players to maintain their fitness levels as best they can so that they are as well prepared as possible to hit the ground running.
Feel free to direct questions to either myself or any of the section heads.
God bless you all,
Ben Hare
President ECHO Hockey
president@echohockey.org.au