The end of the summer holidays also means the start of a new season for amateur sports clubs in Corona time. But are they ready for a ‘corona proof’ competition?
The KNVB sees that most amateur clubs are now well prepared for the new season. “Since April 29, the youth can play football again. The first steps have already been taken”, said a spokesman.
The KNVB has various options to ensure that the start of the amateur competition runs smoothly protocols prepared to start the season responsibly. This describes, among other things, how clubs can keep the different streams of spectators under control. In addition, changing rooms and showers must be large enough to guarantee the 1.5 meters distance. Sports canteens must comply with it Protocol Reopening the Catering Industry.
A few things are also changing for players. For example, the teams must enter the playing field in phases and there is an urgent advice to celebrate goals at a distance of 1.5 meters. Also, no hands may be shaken after a match and the debriefing may not take place in the dressing room.
The KVNB does not expect any problems with compliance with the corona rules. “The protocols are very feasible because of the space on most sports complexes,” said a spokesman. “And what naturally works as a motivation is that no one wants to get infected and everyone wants to avoid having to close the doors at all costs.”
A similar picture can be seen in hockey, for which similar protocols have been drawn up, according to the Royal Hockey Association of the Netherlands. “The associations and volunteers do everything they can to comply with the protocols. Of course that requires a lot from the clubs, but so far we have not received any signals from associations that it is not working.”
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Football fans must disinfect their hands before entering the stadium. (Photo: Pro Shots)
Uncertain picture in indoor sports
A more uncertain picture can be seen in indoor sports, including handball. “In general, the clubs are ready, but we also see that there are still many questions,” said a spokesperson for the Dutch Handball Association (NHV).
Facilitating the public seems to cause difficulties here and there, according to the NHV. “Yesterday we were approached by a club that was told that they are not allowed to use the stands and changing room. That creates all kinds of new problems.”
Associations often depend on the income generated by spectators. They charge money for a ticket, or run a large part of the turnover in the canteen. Also, some clubs are run by just a few people, who are required to keep track of all reservations and verify health for more than a hundred spectators. This leads to a lot of administration for few hands.
The Dutch Basketball Association (NBB) is also receiving worried signals. “Basketball clubs wonder if the ventilation is good enough. And what if we have to play in a region where the corona virus has flared up again?” Said a spokesman.
To allay concerns, the Dutch Basketball Association will come up with its own protocol next week, in addition to the general one sportprotocol of the NOC * NSF. “Here we answer specific questions about basketball. For example, with basketball there is a jury table, where people can of course no longer sit next to each other because of corona. How should that be solved?”
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