Goalball UK logoDear Goalball Family,

Following new COVID-19 restrictions imposed last week we have made necessary amendments to the population section of the Goalball UK Return to Play guidance;

1.      Goalball UK Return to Play Guidance, Version 3

2.      Section 7.3 Population Update (only)

The updated documents are available on our dedicated ‘Return to Play’ page via the following link: Goalball UK – Return to Play

We will be hosting a webinar, open to all, Thursday 1st October, 6pm-6.30pm to run through the update and provide an opportunity to ask any questions. There will also be an opportunity to hear ‘top tips’ on delivery from Faye Dale (Great Britain Men’s Head Coach) who recently ran a training camp following the guidance. You can sign up to the webinar using the link here: Webinar Registration Form

Mark Winder, CEO, explains:

‘Goalball is exempt from the rule of six guidelines as a disability sport for people who are blind or partially sighted. However, as the national governing body, we have created population guidelines based on the ‘rule of six’ set out by the Government.

We are passionate about our sport and the wellbeing of all our Goalball Family. Therefore, it was appropriate to make the changes allowing our sport to continue to re-emerge from lockdown in a safe fashion, whilst maintaining the integrity of the sport. These changes allow this to happen.

All NGB and club affiliated training sessions must follow the restrictions on numbers regardless of age or disability. Goalball can also be played in a formal educational setting in existing educational bubbles as set by the individual institution in line with Government policy.’

While the current restrictions are in place reengagement event and competition planning has been paused until further notice. The risks involved of bringing groups of players together in an indoor space from different locations is currently too high.

If you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to get in touch at: covid@goalballuk.com

Kind regards,

Goalball UK