WVAS Executive Officer Update 21/05/2020

Dear Athletes, Parents, Coaches, Partners & Sponsors,

In the past fortnight governments around Australia have slowly started to ease some of the restrictions introduced to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, Premier Daniel Andrews has announced that some restrictions be eased in Victoria.

While the restrictions vary across Australia, physical distancing remains in place across the nation, as well as the direction to stay home (where possible).
For instance:  Changes to restrictions in Victoria include allowing gatherings of up to five people in your home, small gatherings outdoors of up to 10 people, short road trips allowed but no overnight stays, and testing for people with even the mildest symptoms.

How these changes impact Federation University WestVic Academy of Sport (WVAS)

The WVAS Board met recently to discuss future planning for the operations of our sport programs.
For the moment, there are no further changes to Academy operations.
However, we will continue to monitor developments closely in the coming weeks, with further government announcements expected in the weeks commencing 25 May and 1 June.

Return to training

Meanwhile, we are currently working on a plan for transitioning back to delivering on-site, inperson training sessions. This plan will be shared with you as soon as it is finalised.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we have followed the advice of government in making operational decisions and we will continue to do so. The safety and wellbeing of our staff, coaches, athletes and parents remains our highest priority.
This planning will look at group limits, venue and facility management, activities and equipment protocols, all the while maintaining appropriate physical distancing, health and hygiene measures, so that we can plan a safe and staged return to specialist skills and/or strength & conditioning training sessions.

Summary

It is important to remember that the easing of restrictions does not mean the COVID-19 pandemic is over. Physical distancing requirements, hand hygiene, staying home when unwell and getting tested if you have any symptoms at all, are even more important during any transition back to ‘normal’ to ensure we prevent new cases from emerging.

I look forward to your company at next week’s Athlete Education session on Wednesday 27 May at 8:00pm via Zoom conferencing. We are fortunate and delighted to host Bill Tait – Performance Manager (Podium) at the Victorian Institute of Sport, for what promises to be both an interesting and insightful presentation to athletes, parents and coaches.

Thank you again for your patience, understanding and support in the most unusual and challenging of times.

Sincerely,
Corey Saitta
Executive Officer