In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have developed a COVID-19 prevention framework that follows guidelines issued by;
This plan outlines the framework that we have implemented to support in-person activities while COVID-19 presents a risk to our community.
The following list of guiding principles was the foundation for the creation of this Safety Plan:
Participants in HAWPC activities must first complete the Hamilton Public Health screening questionnaire prior attending the event. The questionnaire can be found at https://www.hamilton.ca/sites/default/files/media/browser/2020-12-04/covid-screening-tool-sept2021.pdf.
The health screening will also support contact tracing efforts, as attendance will be required at each session.
All coaches and voluntaries will be required to provide proof of vaccination in accordance with the Ontario’s vaccine certificate and verification app process. (https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1000779/ontario-to-require-proof-of-vaccination-in-select-settings)
4.0 Change Rooms
We isolate and mitigate any major areas where the disease can spread. As a result we will ask that athletes arrive to the pool changed and ready to go. We encourage that athletes change in the car once leaving. Change rooms are open and available however we feel that though more stringent then public health avoiding change rooms mitigates are greatest opportunity for COVID Spread as a club.
5.0 Mandatory Masking
Anyone coming to HAWPC activities will be required to wear facemask at all times while on deck. We recommend that athletes use three ply medical grade masks.
6.0 Personal Belongings Management
All athletes are to be masked and physical distanced when they arrive on deck. Athletes are to maintain their physical distance as they remove their masks, drop their bags and enter the water.
7.0 Warm Up
Athletes are instructed in how to get in the water safely and placed into working lanes where they are spaced appropriately.
8.0 Change in Guidelines
The HAWPC executive will monitor and review Ministry of Health and other applicable regional health guidance daily to ensure protocols are up to date. They will flag any new risks for discussion and revise this safety plans plan as required.
9.0 Closing
We are committed to providing the safest possible playing environment for our Water Polo Athletes. This is not only in relation to COVID but SAFETY PERIOD. As COVID continues to evolve so too will our coaches in how they deliver their practices.
As always please reach out if you have any questions or have any suggestions for how we can operate a safer environment.