News

New Zealand Rugby continues to monitor Government’s COVID-19 updates and Alert Level changes with a view to how they will impact club, school and community rugby.

“While the New Zealand Government’s decision to move to COVID-19 Alert Level 3 is a positive step, we need to remain vigilant in the fight against the global pandemic,” the organisation said in a statement on Tuesday.

Under COVID-19 Alert Level 3 all club, school and community rugby remains postponed. This postponement includes trainings, workshops and the closure of rugby clubs.

“We know people are eager to be back on the grass, but the well-being of our players, coaches, referees, volunteers, supporters and our wider New Zealand community is the top priority,” the statement continued.

“New Zealand Rugby continues to work closely with the Ministry of Health and Sport New Zealand on Return to Rugby protocols for the 2020 season.

“We are presently working through what rugby activity can occur under Alert Level 2 and we will provide more guidance on this as soon as possible. 

“For a return to rugby, we will take our lead from the Ministry of Health in determining when COVID-19 Alert Levels are once again at a safe level for sport. 

“We thank the rugby community for following Government advice to stay home and playing their part to protect New Zealanders.

“Maintaining mental and physical fitness is encouraged as we continue to prepare for the return of rugby. For helpful ideas, tips and resources visit www.RugbyToolbox.co.nz. 

“This is a challenging time for everyone and it’s important to keep in touch with your teammates, whanau and loved ones. For advice on how you can tackle the tough times visit www.headfirst.co.nz.”

Counties Manukau Rugby Union general manager Aaron Lawton said the organisation was working closely with NZR to determine exactly what each of the Government’s Alert Levels means for local club rugby. 

“This is still a work in progress but I can assure our clubs we will be communicating out the latest information as soon as it comes to hand,” Lawton said.

“We are absolutely committed to working with our clubs to see if we can get some rugby up and running again in our community as soon as it is safe to do so.” 

To stay informed on how NZR is responding to the pandemic visit www.newzealand.rugby/covid-19 or www.steelers.co.nz