The club would like to provide an update to everybody in relation to the current situation regarding the Coronavirus outbreak.
A key message to all to begin with is to maintain Public Health England guidance on infection control and the advice regarding what everyone can do to reduce the risk of catching Coronavirus, that being:
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze. Catch it, Bin it, Kill it.
- Put used tissues in the bin straight away.
- Wash your hands with soap and water often – use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.
- Try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean.
In addition, following advice from the government and the RFL, we have made a number of adjustments for players and staff to our normal procedures to reflect the current advice. The changes are designed to protect the health and safety of players and fans and will mean a reduced level of interaction during the week and on match days.
The following changes will become effective immediately:
- Players will not hold hands with any mascots
- Players should limit any physical contact with supporters at venues
- Players are advised to avoid handshakes, hugs, high fives
- Players are advised not to take items from supporters for signing
- Roary’s Pride will be put on hold until further notice
- All players, officials and supporters are asked to follow the government advice on hand hygiene and protect themselves and others from spreading the infection .
At the present time, as you will have seen this weekend, matches have gone ahead as normal. This is currently the advice although the club will be part of an emergency meeting with all other Championship and League One clubs with the RFL , tomorrow lunchtime. The situation is fluid and both Government and RFL advice is subject to change. We will, however, make sure we keep everybody up to date with developments.
Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for further information.
In the meantime, take care and keep safe
Christopher Hamilton
Chairman
Oldham Rugby League Football Club
