In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hockey Ireland in conjunction with Sport Ireland (and Sport NI) have developed a "Return to Play Protocol" which may be found below.
Hockey Ireland COVID-19 Update August 2021
From Hockey Ireland (11th August 2021)
The following currently applies:
- Outdoor matches may proceed as normal with Covid-19 restrictions in place. A record of players, team management and match officials involved should be kept (both for pre-season and competitive inter-club matches).
- A maximum of 200 spectators may attend organised outdoor events. This does not include players or match officials. A record of spectators attending the venue is not required. The host club should manage the spectator area to ensure spectators are safely spaced.
- Individual indoor training and one to one (player and coach) training is permitted. Please see detailed guidelines below for indoor training.
For outdoor activity, the following applies:
- Training remains in pods of up to 15 including a coach.
- In-club training matches may be played between two separate pods; however, it is recommended that matches should be undertaken at the end of training sessions.
- Covid Compliance Officers (CCO) must be present for all match activity.
- For underage (U18 down) training, a CCO must be present at all training sessions.
- For senior training, it is recommended that a CCO should be present for all sessions. It is acknowledged that Covid-19 has put increased pressure on club volunteer resources. For senior training only, where a CCO is not available, it is acceptable for the coach to act as a CCO provided the coach has completed the Sport Ireland Covid-19 Return to Sport online course and is registered as a CCO with the provincial branch (Covid 19 Course | Sport Ireland).
- For matches, Hockey Ireland recommends avoiding the use of changing rooms where possible.
- Substitutes and team management officials should remain socially distant when not on the playing field.
Sport Ireland have also developed an online course which may be found below.