Morning all, I write from the Clubhouse on a crisp, sunny Sunday morning, with a couple of hundred kids outside enjoying their Training Sessions. Very encouraging. A few words to keep everyone on the ball though, as the last thing we want is for confidence to move to complacency.
On pitch activities are well covered here, and I look to Coaches to familiarise themselves with the rules:
Off pitch remains a little more challenging. Whilst the Club is happy to provide take away snacks and drinks, and will be opening the bar later this week, we MUST observe the rules on Social Distancing.
THE LIMIT ON GATHERINGS FOR PEOPLE FROM DIFFERENT HOUSEHOLDS REMAINS SIX. This includes whilst attending the Club for a drink when the Mighty Oak opens from Thursday 15th April.
We must ensure that we do not assemble in large groups, or even give the appearance of doing so. The newspapers are full of examples of crowds of people clearly ignoring the rules, all of whom are leaving themselves open to being fined by the police. Clubs can be fined up to £10,000 if they are judges to have orchestrated same, so we need to ensure that Sevenoaks Rugby Club is not associated with such behaviour.
In particular, we MUST avoid bunching together on the Clubhouse Veranda. There is enough room for people to sit in permitted groups of six, and the Club will be providing Table Service, which is all within the rules.
I repeat that it is not fair to expect the Catering Staff (many of whom are teenagers earning some extra pocket money) to enforce the rules. It is incumbent on every Club Member to do it for them.
We look to everyone within the Club to act sensibly and responsibly as we navigate these difficult times.
Again, thank you all for your ongoing patience,
Andy Clark. Club Covid Compliance Officer.