• COVID-19 is transmitted via liquid droplets when a person coughs or sneezes but also potentially when they are talking in very close proximity to another person. The virus in these droplets then can enter the body of another person when that person breathes in the droplets or when the droplets touch the eyes, nose or throat of that person.
• This requires you to be in close contact – less than the so-called physical distancing of three to six feet. This is referred to as ‘droplet’ transmission and is believed to be the primary way COVID-19 is transmitted.
• COVID-19 can also be transmitted through droplets in the environment if someone touches a contaminated area then touches their face without cleaning their hands. The virus does not enter the body through skin, it enters through the eyes, nose or mouth when the person touches their face. Unfortunately, human beings touch their faces very often throughout the day, much more than they realize. This is why regular handwashing and cleaning of high-touch surfaces is so important.
• For COVID-19 there are some emerging indications that there are people who can shed COVID-19 virus 24 to 48 hours prior to symptom onset, but at present, it is not known whether this is a significant risk factor for transmission.
• Droplet transmission is much more likely when in close contact in an indoor setting. Transmission is less likely in an outdoor setting, where there is more space for people to keep physically distanced. However, in the context of sports, even outdoors there can be risks from high-touch surfaces because many sports involve objects that are normally shared among players, coaches or volunteers (balls, equipment, etc.).
• Click here to review the Symptoms & Treatment checklist from the Government of Canada.

As we proceed with a return to play introduction phase, ViaSport has outlined the “transition measures” as highlighted in the chart. NWSC is committed to following the transition measures to keep our members safe. We ask our members to continue to do their part and adhere to all safety measures as well.

NWSC – Return to Play – Guidelines

• The activity must always comply with the distancing measures and recommendations, along with any gathering restrictions issued by the provincial government health authorities, including the arrival and departure of players (except for family members or persons residing in the same household)

DROP-OFF PROTOCOL

• Parents and guardians are asked to abide by the following options for enhanced safety precautions;

1. Stay in their vehicles during all training sessions
2. Leave the park and pick up their athlete at the end of the session
3. Keep within the confines of the viewing areas (6 ft distancing measures applied) that will be located at a safe distance away from the playing field
4. Drop your child off no sooner than 10 minutes prior to the start of your training time

PICK-UP PROTOCOL

• Players will be requested to leave the field of play as soon as their session has ended. NWSC will ensure there is no “bottle-neck” of traffic on the field between exiting and incoming player groups.
• Players will be asked to either wash their hands or use the hand sanitizer available before leaving the park.

NWSC – Return to Play – Guidelines

Coaches will be equipped with first aid kits which will include protective items required by the health authorities. NWSC will ensure certified First Aid assistance is available at all times during the program.

• All participants must be registered per the normal process under BC Soccer
• Registration to any programs will be online only (no cash).
• Parents and guardians must complete our online WAIVER authorizing their children to participate in soccer activity.
• NWSC will adhere to ViaSport’s Emergency Response and Outbreak Plan

NWSC – Return to Play – Emergency Response

FIRST AID

• In the event that first aid is required to be administered during an activity, our NWSC volunteers attending to the injured individual must first put on a mask and gloves.
• From a safe distance (2m),or while wearing a mask, coaches will assess the seriousness of the injured player through a series Q & A’s.
• If the player is able to move freely, they will be asked to rest in their designated area until they are able to return to play.
• If additional assistance is required, we will have NWSC volunteers on hand to:

1. Follow our Emergency Action Plan procedures
2. Flag down or call the individual’s parent or guardian
3. NWSC volunteer to contact 8-1-1 if further health advice is required and 9-1-1 if it is an emergency

https://www.worksafebc.com/en/resources/health-safety/information-sheets/ofaa-protocols-covid-19-pandemic?lang=en

OUTBREAK PLAN

Early detection of symptoms will facilitate the immediate implementation of effective control measures. In addition, the early detection and immediate implementation of enhanced cleaning measures are two of the most important factors in limiting the size and length of an outbreak.

An “outbreak” is two or more cases; a “case” is a single case of COVID-19.

1. In the event that a ’case’ or ‘outbreak’ is reported, NWSC will respond as directed by the PHO and will inform those players involved.
2. Implementation of our ILLNESS POLICY (below) and advise individuals to:
   1. Self-isolate
   2. Monitor their symptoms daily
   3. Report respiratory illness and not to return to activity for at least 10 days following the onset of fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat and painful swallowing, stuffy or runny nose, loss of sense of smell, headache, muscle aches, fatigue and loss of appetite.
   4. Use the COVID-19 self-assessment tool to help determine if further assessment or testing for COVID-19 is needed.
3. Individuals can contact 8-1-1 if further health advice is required and 9-1-1 if it is an emergency.
4. In the event of a suspected case or outbreak of influenza-like-illness, immediately report and discuss the suspected outbreak with the Medical Health Officer (or delegate) at your local health authority. Implement your Illness Policy and your enhanced measures.
5. If your organization is contacted by a medical health officer in the course of contact tracing, cooperate with local health authorities.

ILLNESS POLICY

**In this policy, “Team member” includes an employee, coach, volunteer, participant or parent/spectator.

1. Inform an individual in a position of authority (coach, team manager, program coordinator) immediately if, you feel any symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat and painful swallowing, stuffy or runny nose, loss of sense of smell, headache, muscle aches, fatigue and loss of appetite.

2. Assessment
   • Team members must review the self-assessment signage located on-site before their shift/practice/activity to attest that they are not feeling any of the COVID 19 symptoms.
   • Coaches will visually monitor team members to assess any early warning signs as to the status of their health and to touch base on how they are regarding their personal safety throughout the workday/practice/activity.
   • If Team Members are unsure, please use the COVID-19 self-assessment tool

 

3. If a Team Member is feeling sick with COVID-19 symptoms

• They should remain at home and contact Health Link BC at 8-1-1.
• If they feel sick and /or are showing symptoms while at work, they should be sent home immediately and have them contact 8-1-1 or a doctor for further guidance.
• No Team Member may participate in a practice/activity if they are symptomatic.

4. If a Team Member tests positive for COVID-19

• The Team Member will not be permitted to return to the workplace/practice/facility until they are free of the COVID-19 virus.

5. If a Team Member has been tested and is waiting for the results of a COVID-19 Test

• As with the confirmed case, the Team Member must be removed from the workplace/practice/facility.
• The Public Health Agency of Canada advises that any person who has even mild symptoms to stay home and call the public health authority of B.C

6. If a Team Member has come in to contact with someone who is confirmed to have COVID-19

• Team Members must advise their employer/coach if they reasonably believe they have been exposed to COVID-19.

7. Quarantine or Self-Isolate if:

• Any Team Member who has travelled outside of Canada or the province within the last 14 days is not permitted to enter any part of the playing area and must quarantine and self-isolate.
• Any Team Member from a household with someone showing symptoms of COVID-19 is not permitted to enter any part of the playing area and must quarantine and self-isolate.
• Any Team Member who is in quarantine or self-isolating as a result of contact with an infected person or in families who are self-isolating, is not permitted to enter any part of the playing area.

NWSC – Return to Play – Physical Distancing

• Our activities will always comply with the distancing measures and recommendations, along with any gathering restrictions issued by the provincial government health authorities, including the arrival and departure of players (except for family members or persons residing in the same household)
• 6 feet between people and gatherings of 50 people or less
• Reminders to coaches and players of the distancing requirements.
• It is recommended that only one parent/guardian accompany their child/player to the practice

NWSC – Return to Play – Coaching

• Will not let players manipulate the practice equipment.
• Coaches will take charge of set up and collecting equipment.
• Coaches to ensure that players do not touch the ball with their hands, or head

NWSC – Return to Play – Equipment

• Players will not be handling any equipment with their hands.
• If equipment is manipulated by participants, hand sanitation is required.

NWSC – Return to Play – Clean & Safe Environment

• Soap or hand sanitizer will be made available to all people in various locations throughout our playing area.
• Signage displayed to remind and encourage people to wash their hands and adopt proper hygiene practices.
• No lockers/change rooms will be used.
• Participants are asked to change at home prior to and after sessions.
• Players are to keep their bags and water bottles on their designated landmark, which will be located behind their individual grid.
• All players will be asked to avoid physical contact with others (hand shaking, high fives, etc.)

NWSC – Return to Play – Players

All adult players and parents/guardians of youth players must complete NWSC’S online Return to Play – Participant Waiver before they will be granted permission to participate in our programs.  Failure to comply will limit any members from participating in any club programming.

Players are asked to use the Pre-Practice Checklist as a reminder of the appropriate steps that must be taken before, during, and after every practice. (See Tab Below)

Reminders include;

• Changed and ready to participate prior to arrival
• Leave immediately after training is completed
• All personal belongings must be contained in a single bag/backpack that is clearly labelled
• Bring your own hand sanitizer
• Sanitize your hands before and after every practice

NWSC – Return to Play – Technical Staff & Volunteers

 All technical staff and volunteers must complete a Return to Play Agreement – Technical Staff & Volunteers before they are granted permission to participate in our programs.

Coaches and volunteers are asked to use the Pre-Practice Checklist form as a reminder of the appropriate steps that must be taken before, during, and after every practice.  A self-assessment will be required prior to attending any club programs.

All technical coaches, executives, and volunteers will be educated on all appropriate safety and hygiene protocols in advance of NWSC’s programs.

Resources

PROVINCE OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

• BC’s Restart Plan
• BC COVID-19 Go-Forward Management Strategy
• BC Go Forward Strategy Checklist
• PHO Orders
• Fraser Health

HEALTH RESOURCES

• COVID-19 self-assessment tool
• https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/healthy-living/your-health/diseases/benefits-hand-washing.html

SPORT AND RECREATION RESOURCES

• https://www.viasport.ca/return-sport
• https://bcsoccer.net/return-to-play-information

PLAYERS – PRE-PRACTICE CHECKLIST

BEFORE PRACTICE

• Wash your hands with disinfectant soap and water for at least 20 seconds before leaving your residence.
• Bring your own water bottle and hand sanitizer and keep them in a personal bag/backpack. PLEASE CLEARLY LABEL ANY/ALL ITEMS WITH YOUR NAME.
• Clean your equipment, including your water bottle before you arrive
• Change into your soccer apparel at home (not at the field) – arrive in your cleats
• Water will not be shared or distributed by NWSC staff or participants
• Consider wearing a mask or gloves while playing if you feel it is required or if it increases your level of security and comfort.
• If you cough or sneeze, do so in a tissue or in your sleeve.
• Avoid touching door handles, gates, benches, and all other objects where viruses could survive.

DURING PRACTICE

• Follow the instructions provided by your coach for entry and exit to your field
• Comply with all physical distancing measures and recommendations issued by the provincial government health authorities, including the arrival and departure of players.
• Listen to your coach and keep to the area of the field the coach has instructed you to be in.
• As much as possible, keep a 2-meter distance with other players
• No handshakes, high fives, or hugs allowed.
• Avoid touching the ball and other equipment – let the coach handle the equipment.
• Goalkeepers must not share gloves or spit in their gloves.

AFTER PRACTICE

• Leave the field as quickly as possible after you finish playing.
• Wash your hands/use hand sanitizer before leaving the park.

TECHNICAL STAFF & VOLUNTEERS – PRE-PRACTICE CHECKLIST

BEFORE PRACTICE

• Download and utilize the COVID-19 self-assessment tool before every NWSC sanctioned practice.
• Notify the Club and stay home if you are feeling sick and remain home for 14 days if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
• Wash your hands with disinfectant soap and water for at least 20 seconds before going to the soccer activity.
• Bring your own water bottle and hand sanitizer and keep them in a personal bag/backpack in the area designated for you on the field.
• Change into your soccer apparel at home (not at the field)
• Consider wearing a mask or gloves during sessions if you feel more comfortable wearing one.
• If you cough or sneeze, do so in a tissue or in your sleeve but not your hands.
• Avoid touching door handles, gates, benches, and all other objects where viruses could survive.

DURING PRACTICE

• Always follow posted signs at the park where applicable
• Check in all participants in your session at all sessions
• If any participants display any symptoms of illness they must be sent home.
• Remind players of the requirements for social distancing and equipment handling.
• Keep players to the area of the field under your control.
• Maintain physical distancing as required by health authorities.
• Avoid any physical contact with players.
• Do not shake hands or high five players.
• Players are to avoid touching the ball and other equipment – let the coach handle the equipment.

AFTER PRACTICE

• Players are to leave the field as quickly as possible after each session.
• Wash your hands/use hand sanitizer after every session

SITE MANAGEMENT

NWSC has created some reminders and guidelines surrounding the management of our sites.

Regarding parking lots, the expectation is that people:

• Do not congregate ​
• Maintain physical distancing at all times
• If a player is at an age that they will not be able to manage the above two points, they should be accompanied by an adult

Casual spectator areas will be around the fields of play. Our expectation is:

• A maximum of two spectators per family is allowed
• Physical distancing is maintained in the casual areas
• Masks are optional but recommended per the health authority’s guidance
• Spectators are to stay on the side of the field where their child is participating and not move between or into other casual areas.

RISK MANAGEMENT

NWSC has come up with additional measures to mitigate risk which include:

• Appointment of contact tracing officer/risk manager:

Darryl Hogan riskmanager.nwsc@gmail.com

• Duties include:
  1. Monitor advice and direction from health and sport authorities
  2. Manage any contact tracing reports
  3. Ensure that safe soccer compliance is met within all NWSC programming

Please note that we recognize that some of these protocols are inconvenient, but for everyone’s safety we expect 100% compliance. Please do not take offence to any reminders provided on-site as we are simply trying to abide by the guidance of our provincial health authorities.  We want to ensure that sport is back to normal as soon as possible.  As such, lets continue to do everything in our power to make that happen!

DISCLAIMER

NWSC’S Return to Play Guidelines are intended to be used for the purposes set in this document. We have written and aimed to provide relevant and timely information, because information known about the COVID-19 coronavirus and recommended health and safety measures can rapidly change no guarantee can be given as to the accuracy or completeness of any information provided in the Return to Play Guidelines.

It is important to note that our Return to Play Guidelines is not a legal document and is to be used as a guide only. It is not a substitute for actual legislation or orders of the PHO. In the event of an ambiguity or conflict between the Return to Play Guidelines and the Public Health Act, regulations or orders thereunder, the Act, regulations and orders prevail.

This document contains links to third party web sites. Links are provided for convenience only and NWSC does not guarantee its accuracy, timeliness or fitness for a particular purpose. The information in those links may be updated from time to time.

NWSC’S documentation may be updated pending updated information from our provincial health organizations. Anyone registered for any NWSC programming does so voluntarily. NWSC shall not be responsible for any loss or damage of any kind arising directly or indirectly from the use of the Return to Play Guidelines including, without limitation, reliance on the completeness or accuracy of the information provided.

NWSC Phase 2