You can access the PDF version of this document here.
You can download the updated version of the “Second Stage Responsible Return to Play Framework” here.

Framework Update for the ‘Second Stage’ Return to Responsible Play

‘Second Stage’ – The “Cohort” Model

Dear Field Hockey BC Members,

On behalf of the Field Hockey BC (FHBC) Board of Directors, I am writing to provide for an important update to the second stage responsible return to play PSO framework. Following a recent update notification from viaSport (dated September 25, 2020), the previously approved PSO framework (date stamped September 3, 2020) has been updated to provide for clarity of expectation as it relates to the number of cohorts a general participant may be active within (at this second stage), what this means for PSO or NSO high performance participants, and contact tracing protocols.

In short and at this time, PSO framework field hockey participants are required to be restricted to a SINGLE field hockey cohort. The only exception is for participants actively enrolled in a PSO or NSO high performance program, where such participants are permitted to be involved in a second cohort. There is also no longer a requirement to file cohort detail with a facility operator or owner, although the collection and management of up to date cohort information remains essential.

The now updated and approved second stage responsible return to play framework (date stamped September 29, 2020) will be disseminated to LSO senior contacts, posted on the home page of the FHBC website (www.fieldhockeybc.com), and referenced through Society social media channels. As required, a copy of the updated and approved second stage framework (September 29, 2020) will also be sent to viaSport for public posting on the viaSport website (www.viasport.ca).

At this second stage responsible return to play, I once again take this opportunity to draw your particular attention to the required safety protocols, the required completion of attestation forms and management of contract tracing information, and the detail pertaining to the creation and management of the ‘Cohort’ model. It remains everyone’s responsibility whether it be planning for implementation or direct active participation to remain vigilant in the execution of safety protocols, and in doing so help to maintain a high level of participant confidence.

Yours in sport,

Mark Saunders
Executive Director
Field Hockey BC
September 30, 2020

The Return to Sport Guidelines from viaSport has received a small update. Moving forward, the Local Sport Organizations will not send their participant list and contact information to the facility operators as a prerequisite.

“Sport organizations are asked to update their safety plans to reflect the addition of any new activities. For contact tracing purposes, the current Public Health Office Order on Gatherings and Events requires only the user group or event organizer collect contact tracing information (first and last names, telephone numbers, or email addresses) for each participant at each
event. As part of their safety plans, however, facility owners and operators should continue to confirm that event organizers are aware of their requirements for contact tracing and other conditions for holding a safe event.”

See the message from viaSport here and access their full Guideline for more information.

An important step to support sport organizations in British Columbia has been taken by viaSport and the Province of B.C. This Monday they announced that the Local Sport Relief Fund is now open and accepting applications from eligible organizations until October 16, 2020. Non-profit, local and community sport organizations are able to apply for up to $7,500 in funding through this one-time grant.

View the grant guidelines and find out how to apply here. For questions regarding the grant application process or to discuss your application, please email localsportfunding@viaSport.ca.

You can access the PDF version of this document here.
You can download the “Second Stage Responsible Return to Play Framework” here.

Framework Approval for the ‘Second Stage’ Return to Responsible Play

‘Second Stage’ – The “Cohort” Model

Dear Field Hockey BC Members

On behalf of the Field Hockey BC (FHBC) Board of Directors, I am delighted to announce that the Second Stage Responsible Return to Play Framework (for field hockey in BC) has now been officially approved. The FHBC Board of Directors met on the evening of September 3, 2020 to further consider this second stage framework progression, a progression made possible following the recent release of stage two guidelines by the BC Provincial Government agency viaSport.

The now approved second stage responsible return to play framework (date stamped September 3, 2020) will be disseminated to LSO senior contacts, posted on the home page of the FHBC website (www.fieldhockeybc.com), and referenced through Society social media channels. As required, a copy of the approved second stage framework will also be sent to viaSport for public posting on the viaSport website (www.viasport.ca). Such public posting acts as the official catalyst allowing the PSO and LSO’s to move forward to implementation.

As was the case for the first stage framework, the now approved second stage framework provides guidance as to the minimum standard expected for active implementation and we once again draw your particular attention to the required safety protocols, the required completion of attestation forms, and at this second stage the detail pertaining to the creation and management of the ‘Cohort’ model. It remains everyone’s responsibility whether it be planning for implementation or direct active participation to remain vigilant in the execution of safety protocols, and in doing so help to maintain a high level of participant confidence.

LSO’s may now develop and refine activity plans and look to the necessary steps to secure appropriate facility permits for second stage implementation. Please remember that second stage activity plans are required to be posted on your LSO website for public access. As we take this next step towards a return to modified game-based field hockey activity, I wish everyone the very best for what should be an enjoyable start to a new season.

Yours in sport,

Mark Saunders
Executive Director
Field Hockey BC, September 4, 2020