I am reaching out to you to communicate SBC expectations regarding return to play protocols, as we are planning to be back on local diamonds within the next few days.
In our enthusiasm to get back to baseball, it is our duty to remind you that we must not overlook the fact that COVID-19 transmission is still an active threat in our community. We must adhere to the Ontario Baseball Return to Play protocols, which were approved two days ago by our Ontario Ministry of Health (see links below ). Also, late yesterday afternoon the Lambton Health Unit updated protocols for stage one (link attached). It is our intention that you read this email thoroughly and discuss the contents with your child(ren); afterwards reply back to your head coach/manager that you have received this important email, to signify that you understand the inherent risk of gathering to work out and the stipulations we are operating under.
Our SBC executive is providing clear instructions for all stakeholders: coaches, parents and players in this email. We must remain vigilant in adhering to what is commonly referred to as a 'layered approach' in order to safe-guard our youth and coaches from Covid-19 transmission; and thereby, ensure that we will continue to benefit from further restrictions being lifted throughout the summer.
This layered approach includes: hand-sanitizing, social distancing, pre-screening for symptoms, contact tracing, vaccination (12+), masking when appropriate, and common sense.
Pre-workout: Covid screening via the On Deck App (links below) prior to each park visit, sign-in and hand-sanitizer 'at the gate', one parent/guardian (<18yrs player) only to enter per player .
During Workout: players and coaches will be grouped in numbers not exceeding 10; it is permittable to have 2 groups of 10 on the diamond at one time, the groups must not interact, or be in close proximity and the equipment must be sanitized before crossing groups, players must hand-sanitize every 30 min (suggested at each water break).
Post Workout: players will hand-sanitize upon exiting the park; it is expected that if a player, coach or parent experiences symptom within 48 hours of the workout that a parent/guardian would notify the head coach so that proper protocols be followed.
ALL ATENDEES ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR STAYING 3 METERS APART DURING ALL STAGES OF THE PROCESS OUTLINED.
Most of us have experienced 'COVID fatigue' by this point but we must remain vigilant, and all do our part to ensure that restrictions continue to lift and we get back to 'baseball as usual.'
Please review with your child(ren) and email your head coach/manager an acknowledgment of receiving this email.
LET's PLAY BALL! ...safely
GO Sarnia Baseball Club!! (formerly GO Braves!!)"
Baseball Ontario: ONDeck
Baseball Ontario: Practices Resume June 11th Announcement
Province of Ontario: Re-opening Ontario Announcement
Lambton Public Heath: Sports & Recreation Announcement