Hi everyone,

In light of the Association’s rapidly changing responsibilities in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Volleyball Southland Board in conjunction with ILT Southland Stadium want to provide some common sense guidance for all members.

Clearly this is an unprecedented situation with potentially serious consequences if we get it wrong.

Having said that, there’s no need for panic. We need to stay calm and make clear-headed decisions that are focussed on our #1 priority - safeguarding our members’ health.

Two key aspects of doing that, the experts tell us, are cutting down on social interactions and careful handwashing.

On the other side of this pandemic, I’d far rather apologise for what might be seen in hindsight as an over-reaction; than to have to explain why we didn’t have the courage to make some hard decisions that could have saved lives.

Be well aware that what we’re dealing with is very much a moving target, here is the current situation:

• The next three weeks of Wednesday volleyball will go ahead with following new rules  
• At this stage NO Invercargill cases have been confirmed 
• If you have been overseas then you need to self-isolate and not come to volleyball 
• If you have low immunity or at-risk health issues please do not come to volleyball and arrange a replacement 
• There will be no handshaking and or high fives at any games 
• No spectators other than coach / manager 
• No loitering. When you game is over you need to leave immediately. 
• At one time we only have 80-90 people at volleyball in any one time slot.  
• Please wash hands with soap prior and post your game. 
• Hand sanitizers and balls will be disinfected for each game.
• Representative trials will still go ahead in April at this stage. However, these will closed trials and you will need to register through the sporty link we will advertise later this week.

We are in regular communication with VNZ & Nigel at the Stadium and we will report any further decisions as soon as they are made available.

Please check the volleyball Southlandl website for up-to-date information. www.volleysouth.org.nz

Volleyball National Office:

The National Office has contingencies in place for their events should the situation escalate. In the meantime, please conduct as much business as you can by phone or email through Volleyball Southland rather than through the national office.

Events Calendar:

With an increasing number of Events throughout the country being cancelled due to the pandemic’s impact, please make sure you check volleyball NZ Facebook and website

I trust this clarifies – well, as much as we can in this fast-changing situation - where we stand right now. As I said, there’s no need for panic; but we do need to use our common sense and not lose sight of our #1 priority - safeguarding our members’ health (including yours!).

So, if you’re faced with a situation where you have any doubts at all – trust your instincts and err on the side of caution.

Ngā mihi,

Donna Mine

Volleyball Southland Board Chair

Article added: Monday 16 March 2020