Ulster Hockey is delighted to note the announcement made this evening (15th April) regards the package of relaxations to the current Coronavirus Health Regulations.
Relevant to hockey, the Executive has stated that from April 23rd:
- Outdoor sport organised by a club, individual or individuals affiliated will be extended to include squad training;
- Competitive outdoor sport organised by a club, individual or individuals affiliated with participant numbers not exceeding 100 and no spectators can return.
Ulster Hockey will await the publication of the new regulations before providing further information regards any restrictions to competitive sport and training (i.e. who is permitted to make up the 100). The Competitions Committee will now meet to discuss the opportunities for organised hockey, taking consideration of the feedback recently provided by clubs, and an announcement will be made as soon as possible.
Until 23rd April, all clubs must continue to maintain the maximum groups of 15 as set out in the recent announcements.
Schools
Ulster Hockey also notes the correspondence from Peter Weir to all school Principals on the 14th April which stated that the regulations had been amended to permit outdoor-extra curricular schools’ sports with immediate effect. Schools must adhere to the Hockey Ireland return to hockey protocols. Please note that this correspondence stated that inter schools competitions are not permitted.
Ulster Hockey will continue to monitor the restrictions and engage with the schools committees and school representatives to determine the viability of competitive school hockey in the summer term.
