Hockey Ireland – Covid-19 Guidelines Update

14th March 2022

The Irish Government has removed almost all Covid-19 restrictions within Ireland. For hockey clubs, this means a return to pre-Covid conditions for training sessions, matches and off-field club activities.

While restrictions have been removed, the Irish Government has reiterated the need for ongoing monitoring of the virus, particularly for individuals who contract the virus to follow the recommended procedures. You will find these guidelines here: gov.ie – Public health advice in place right now (www.gov.ie).

Hockey Ireland would like to sincerely thank all of our clubs, schools, and branches for their commitment to ensuring that hockey was managed safely while Covid-19 restrictions were in place over the past 2 years.

24th January 2022

On Friday January 21st, 2022, the Irish Government made an announcement in relation to Public Health Measures. Sport Ireland have issued further guidelines for sport. 

Please note that these guidelines apply to the Republic of Ireland only.  

 The full announcement can be accessed here: gov.ie – Government announces that most of the public health measures currently in place can be removed (www.gov.ie) 

 Key items in relation to sport & physical activity are as follows: 

• Formal requirements for physical distancing (2m) removed.
• 8pm closing time for sporting events removed. 
• Capacity restrictions for outdoor sporting events removed. 
• Capacity restrictions for indoor sporting events removed. 
• Seated only spectators at indoor sporting events removed.
• Use of pods for indoor sporting activities removed.
• Use of a COVID pass to access indoor events removed. 

The requirement for a Covid-19 Compliance Officer (CCO) to be present at underage activity has also been removed.  

 As the Irish Government have reiterated the need for ongoing close monitoring of the virus, hockey branches, clubs and schools should continue to risk assess individual activities and events. This includes the continued implementation of good hygiene practices, along with recommending symptomatic individuals do not participate in or attend sporting activities. 

Please note that mask wearing requirements and close contact protocols should be followed according to government advice. For more information: www.gov.ie 

If you require any further information, please contact Hockey Ireland – info@hockey.ie  

05th January 2022

Sport Ireland has issued further guidelines for both indoor and outdoor sport,  based on the Irish Government’s guidelines introduced in December 2021. These will remain in place until at least January 31st 2022.

Please note that these guidelines apply to the Republic of Ireland only.

Indoor Sport

• Indoor sporting events will not take place after 8pm. For events happening earlier in the day, attendance should be limited to 50% of venue capacity or 1,000 attendees, whichever is the lower.
• The 8pm time restriction does not apply to indoor sports training (single club only). This training can continue in line with previous guidance and with protective measures in place ( i.e. use of pods where applicable, cleaning/hygiene, ventilation, mask use etc.).

Outdoor Sport

• Attendance at outdoor sporting events are limited to 50% of venue capacity or 5,000 attendees, whichever is the lower.
• The 8pm time restriction does not apply to outdoor sporting events or outdoor training.

 09^th December 2021 

Sport Ireland has issued further guidelines for indoor venues based on the Irish Government’s guidelines introduced in December 2021. Please note that these guidelines apply to the Republic of Ireland only.

Indoor Events:

Indoor venues may operate at 50% spectator capacity for sporting events. Face masks should be worn at all times unless eating or drinking.

24^th November 2021

Sport Ireland has issued further guidelines for underage indoor matches and competition. Please note that these guidelines apply to the Republic of Ireland only.

Indoor Underage Hockey: Games and Competitions for Children under 18 Years Old

• The current “pod of six” system can be adjusted to allow for indoor games and competition activities for players of mixed immunity status according to the ordinary rules and limits of the sport concerned.
• The ‘pod of six’ system should be retained for all other settings such as training activities.
• The continuation of the pod system for more frequent activity will assist in minimising the overall risk and facilitate contact tracing.

Additional Hockey Ireland Guidelines:

• Clubs should limit squad sizes as much as possible.
• Parents of players should be informed of the restrictions and guidelines for competitive hockey.
• All other guidelines should be strictly adhered to as per the previous Hockey Ireland Covid-19 update on 28^th October 2021 (see below).

Mitigation Measures for Inclusion in Indoor Youth Sport Protocols:

• Staggered start and finish times combined with appropriate entry, exit and traffic management protocols to minimise the unnecessary interaction of participants at any one time.
• The pre-booking of activity including the health screening of participants along with coaches & support personnel.
• Symptomatic individuals not to participate in or attend sporting activities.
• Consideration of indoor space densities when determining overall numbers.
• Reduction in the overall duration of activities.
• Ensuring that indoor spaces are well ventilated.
• Participants to arrive prepared to play; limited use of changing room or showers.
• The ongoing promotion of good respiratory & hand hygiene.
• The wearing of face coverings by coaches and support personnel.
• Additional signage, hand sanitization stations and deep cleaning implemented.
• The use of physical distancing during warm-ups, rest times and off the field of play.
• No handshakes, high fives, fist pumps, chest bumps, huddles, group celebrations, etc.
• The use of dedicated Covid-19 Officers to ensure implementation and compliance of measures

28^th October 2021 

The Irish government and Sport Ireland have issued a further update to the Covid-19 guidelines for sport in the Republic of Ireland from 22^nd October 2021.

Guidelines for Ulster clubs can be found here: COVID Guidance Sept 2021 – Ulster Hockey

According to Sport Ireland, it is likely that the current set of guidelines will remain in place until at least February 2022.

The main points of the update are below:

Spectator Capacities:

• For outdoor venues, capacity limits in relation to Covid-19 have been removed and there is no longer a requirement to check for Covid-19 vaccination certifications.
• For indoor venues, spectators must have Covid-19 vaccination certifications, and these should be checked by the hosting body prior to entry. Indoor spectators should be seated.

Indoor Training Guidance:

• Where indoor training groups are of mixed immunity, pods of 6 are allowed (excluding a coach/trainer). Individual pods should be well spaced apart from others.
• Where indoor training groups are fully vaccinated for Covid-19, no fixed capacity limits apply.

Apart from the above, all guidance from our previous Covid-19 update from 22^nd September 2021 (see below) is applicable.

22nd September 2021 

The Irish government have issued updates to the Covid-19 guidelines for Returning to Sport.

Sport Ireland have issued further guidelines as of the 16^th of September 2021. This includes guidance around the use of changing rooms and travelling to and from matches. These are summarised below.

Please note that these guidelines apply to clubs based in the Republic of Ireland (ROI) only. Teams travelling across the ROI/Northern Ireland (NI) border in both directions (for EY Hockey League or National Cup Competitions), should familiarise themselves with the Covid-19 protocols and guidance for the area.

Guidelines for Ulster clubs can be found here: COVID Guidance Sept 2021 – Ulster Hockey

Spectator Capacities:

From 06^th September 2021:

• Outdoor venues will be allowed to operate at 50% capacity. Social distancing should be maintained at all times. This assumes that host venues will not seek proof of vaccination from patrons.
• Spectators will not be allowed for indoor venues.

Please note: Clubs may increase spectator capacity to 75% with appropriate protective measures if checks of proof of immunity are conducted prior to entry. Hockey Ireland recognises the logistical challenges around processing Covid passports on match days for clubs and would therefore recommend proceeding on the basis of a 50% attendance.

Training and Playing Restrictions: 

From 20^th September 2021:

Outdoors:

• For outdoor training, the current system of training in pods of 15 will be removed and training will be allowed to proceed as normal.
• 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).

Indoors:

• For indoor training, pods of up to 6 will be permitted (not including a coach). Multiple pods will be allowed to train in a single indoor venue subject to substantial social distancing between each pod.

General (current guidelines):

• 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 only, a CCO is no longer required to oversee training sessions. Training attendance must still be logged and recorded for tracking purposes in the event of a positive Covid-19 case.
• Indoor changing rooms may be used subject to guidance below.
• Substitutes and team management officials should remain socially distant when not on the playing field.
• Ball patrol may be used provided appropriate hand sanitising procedures are in place for ball patrol personnel.

Use of Changing Facilities and Showers:

 Showers & Changing Rooms can begin to reopen with protective measures in place. Recommended measures include:

• Ensure only necessary participants have access to changing rooms.
• Limit the overall number and duration of individuals in a changing room depending on the space available. Continue to implement adequate social distancing measures in changing areas. For example, a maximum of 6 in a dressing room at a time for a maximum duration of 15 minutes.
• Masks should be worn in shared areas (showers an exception).
• Provide clear signage highlighting any relevant space capacities and time durations.
• Close off any unnecessary spaces or those not in use/not permitted.
• Monitor toilets with agreed capacity numbers and limit to participants only.
• Implement flow management systems where necessary.
• To improve ventilation, consider an open window/open door policy (subject to privacy).
• Provide sanitisation stations as appropriate on entrances and in shared areas.
• Continue to promote hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette through signage, posters etc.
• Ensure deep cleaning of shared areas on a regular basis.

Travelling to/from Matches: 

Hockey clubs organising transport to/from events should implement private Coach Tour capacities (currently at 75%). Protective measures such as physical distancing, mask wearing etc. should also be implemented.

For carpooling, hockey clubs should be aware of the higher risks involved with transport carrying those not yet vaccinated or of mixed immunity. The use of appropriate face coverings is recommended. If carpooling, Hockey Ireland recommend the use of a pod system in which the same participants pool together for all activities.

Indoor Training Guidance 

The Sport Ireland Return to Sport Expert Group have issued detailed guidelines for the return of indoor training. These guidelines remain in place.

Please note: The following guidelines apply to Republic of Ireland only. For Northern Ireland, please find further details here: Return To Sport | Sport NI

 The following applies for indoor activity:

• From September 20^th, organised indoor sport can take place with capacity limits of 100 people (with appropriate protective measures) where all patrons are immune (fully vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 within previous 6 months).
• Where individuals have mixed immunity status, pods of up to 6 participants will be permitted (excluding adult coaches/instructors).
• Multiple pods will be permissible subject to protective measures such as appropriate distancing between pods. HI recommend a minimum of a 5-metre exclusion zone between pods.
• Number of pods will have regard to the size of venue and substantial social distance between individual pods.

Administration:

• Staggered start and finish times combined with appropriate entry, exit and traffic management protocols to limit the interaction of participants at any one time.
• Prebooking of activity is essential. This includes the health screening of all participants (including coaches & support personnel). All personnel on-site should be recorded.
• Reduction in the overall duration of the activity.
• Participants arrive ready to train and leave immediately (no changing room or shower use).
• Additional signage, hand sanitisation stations and deep cleaning implemented.
• No equipment sharing in any circumstances.
• Activity should take place in a predefined area which is visually marked out and directionally signed.
• The space required in this area should reflect the nature and intensity of the activity.
• There should be in excess of 5m social distancing between each of the predefined areas.
• The Cleaning & Ventilation of facilities should be conducted in accordance with the Government’s most recent Work Safely Protocol.
• The training must be supervised by a branch-registered Club Covid-19 Compliance Officer.

Coaching Guidelines:

• Any demonstration of equipment or technique should ensure that a minimum of 2m social distancing is maintained.
• Individual equipment should not be shared.
• In the case of fixed equipment, cleaning of such equipment must be completed immediately after demonstration and before the individual participant uses it.
• There should be no hands-on adjustments or physical contact during training sessions.
• Coaches and trainers are asked to refer to the HSE guidance on wearing of face coverings, which is available here: When to wear a face covering – HSE.ie

Clubs undertaking indoor activity must:

• Implement thorough and regular cleaning of frequently touched surfaces. If disinfection of an area is required, it must be performed in addition to cleaning, never as a substitute for cleaning.
• Ensure contact/touch surfaces such as table tops, door handles, and handrails are visibly clean at all times. Additionally, sports equipment should be cleaned before and after use.
• Provide coaches/ participants with essential cleaning materials to keep their own areas clean (for example wipes/disinfection products, paper towels and waste bins/bags).
• Records should be maintained for all cleaning.

Additional Guidance for Hockey Clubs:

Hockey clubs should seek to maintain overarching structures and basic protective measures throughout the winter season. This includes the use of COVID Compliance Officers (CCOs) for matches and the ongoing promotion of good respiratory & hand hygiene along with the wearing of face coverings in relevant settings and considering indoor space densities and duration of indoor activities.

*** Previous updates ***

03^rd September 2021 

The Irish government have issued updates to the Covid-19 guidelines for Returning to Sport.

Please note that these guidelines apply to clubs based in the Republic of Ireland (ROI) only. Teams travelling across the ROI/Northern Ireland (NI) border in both directions (for EY Hockey League or National Cup Competitions), should familiarise themselves with the Covid-19 protocols and guidance for the area.

Guidelines for Ulster clubs can be found here: COVID Guidance Sept 2021 – Ulster Hockey

For further queries, please contact info@hockey.ie

Spectator Capacities:

 From 06^th September 2021:

• Outdoor venues will be allowed to operate at 50% capacity. Social distancing should be maintained at all times. This assumes that host venues will not seek proof of vaccination from patrons.
• Spectators will not be allowed for indoor venues.

Please note: Clubs may increase spectator capacity to 75% with appropriate protective measures if checks of proof of immunity are conducted prior to entry. Hockey Ireland recognises the logistical challenges around processing Covid passports on match days for clubs and would therefore recommend proceeding on the basis of a 50% attendance.

Training and Playing Restrictions: 

 From 20^th September 2021:

Outdoors:

• For outdoor training, the current system of training in pods of 15 will be removed and training will be allowed to proceed as normal.
• 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).

Indoors:

• For indoor training, pods of up to 6 will be permitted (not including a coach). Multiple pods will be allowed to train in a single indoor venue subject to substantial social distancing between each pod.

General (current guidelines):

• 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 only, a CCO is no longer required to oversee training sessions. Training attendance must still be logged and recorded for tracking purposes in the event of a positive Covid-19 case.
• Indoor changing rooms should not be used under the current guidance.
• Substitutes and team management officials should remain socially distant when not on the playing field.
• Ball patrol may be used provided appropriate hand sanitising procedures are in place for ball patrol personnel.

Indoor Training Guidance 

The Sport Ireland Return to Sport Expert Group have issued detailed guidelines for the return of indoor training. These guidelines remain in place.

Please note: The following guidelines apply to Republic of Ireland only. For Northern Ireland, please find further details here: Return To Sport | Sport NI

The following applies for indoor training:

Administration:

• Staggered start and finish times combined with appropriate entry, exit and traffic management protocols to limit the interaction of participants at any one time.
• Prebooking of activity is essential. This includes the health screening of all participants (including coaches & support personnel). All personnel on-site should be recorded.
• Reduction in the overall duration of the activity.
• Participants arrive ready to train and leave immediately (no changing room or shower use).
• Additional signage, hand sanitisation stations and deep cleaning implemented.
• No equipment sharing in any circumstances.
• Activity should take place in a predefined area which is visually marked out and directionally signed.
• The space required in this area should reflect the nature and intensity of the activity.
• There should be in excess of 5m social distancing between each of the predefined areas.
• The Cleaning & Ventilation of facilities should be conducted in accordance with the Government’s most recent Work Safely Protocol.
• The training must be supervised by a branch-registered Club Covid-19 Compliance Officer.

Coaching Guidelines:

• Any demonstration of equipment or technique should ensure that a minimum of 2m social distancing is maintained.
• Individual equipment should not be shared.
• In the case of fixed equipment, cleaning of such equipment must be completed immediately after demonstration and before the individual participant uses it.
• There should be no hands-on adjustments or physical contact during training sessions.
• Coaches and trainers are asked to refer to the HSE guidance on wearing of face coverings, which is available here: When to wear a face covering – HSE.ie

Clubs undertaking indoor activity must:

1. Implement thorough and regular cleaning of frequently touched surfaces. If disinfection of an area is required, it must be performed in addition to cleaning, never as a substitute for cleaning.
2. Ensure contact/touch surfaces such as table tops, door handles, and handrails are visibly clean at all times. Additionally, sports equipment should be cleaned before and after use.
3. Provide coaches/ participants with essential cleaning materials to keep their own areas clean (for example wipes/disinfection products, paper towels and waste bins/bags).
4. Records should be maintained for all cleaning.

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Hockey Ireland – Covid-19 Guidelines Update 11^th August 2021 

The Irish government have issued no further updates to the Covid-19 guidelines for Returning to Sport since 5^th July 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.

Indoor Training Guidance 

The Sport Ireland Return to Sport Expert Group have issued detailed guidelines for the return of indoor training. These guidelines remain in place.

Please note: The following guidelines apply to Republic of Ireland only. For Northern Ireland, please find further details here: Return To Sport | Sport NI

Individual training is defined as: ‘Individual, physically distanced, non-contact activity, completed in a pre-defined area, within a controlled environment and without the sharing of equipment.

The following applies for indoor training:

1. Staggered start and finish times combined with appropriate entry, exit and traffic management protocols to limit the interaction of participants at any one time.
2. Prebooking of activity is essential. This includes the health screening of all participants (including coaches & support personnel). All personnel on-site should be recorded.
3. Reduction in the overall duration of the activity.
4. Participants arrive ready to train and leave immediately (no changing room or shower use).
5. Additional signage, hand sanitisation stations and deep cleaning implemented.
6. No equipment sharing in any circumstances.
7. Activity should take place in a predefined area which is visually marked out and directionally signed.
8. The space required in this area should reflect the nature and intensity of the activity.
9. There should be in excess of 2m social distancing between each of the predefined areas.
10. The Cleaning & Ventilation of facilities should be conducted in accordance with the Government’s most recent Work Safely Protocol. Additional information can also be found in the appendixes of this documents.

One to one (coach and player training – in line with safeguarding requirements – may proceed as follows:

1. Any demonstration of equipment or technique should ensure that a minimum of 2m social distancing is maintained.
2. Individual equipment should not be shared.
3. In the case of fixed equipment, cleaning of such equipment must be completed immediately after demonstration and before the individual participant uses it.
4. There should be no hands-on adjustments or physical contact during training sessions.
5. Coaches and trainers are asked to refer to the HSE guidance on wearing of face coverings, which is available here: When to wear a face covering – HSE.ie

Additional Points:

1. For clubs who wish to undertake one to one or individual training indoors, the above guidelines should incorporate the guidance outlined in this document into their existing Covid 19 Return to Training Policies and Procedures.
2. The guidelines assume an ongoing allowance of indoor activity as dictated by the Public Health Situation and whether sporting facilities are open.
3. The training must be supervised by a branch-registered Club Covid-19 Compliance Officer.

Clubs undertaking indoor activity must:

1. Implement thorough and regular cleaning of frequently touched surfaces. If disinfection of an area is required, it must be performed in addition to cleaning, never as a substitute for cleaning.
2. Ensure contact/touch surfaces such as table tops, door handles and handrails are visibly clean at all times. Additionally, sports equipment should be cleaned before and after use.
3. Provide coaches/ participants with essential cleaning materials to keep their own areas clean (for example wipes/disinfection products, paper towels and waste bins/bags).
4. Records should be maintained for all cleaning.

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Hockey Ireland Coronavirus (COVID-19) UPDATE regarding Changes to COVID-19 Restrictions.

4^th June 2021 

The Irish government have issued further updates to the Covid-19 guidelines for Returning to Sport.

The following applies from 07^th June 2021: 

• Outdoor matches may recommence.
• A maximum of 100 may attend organised outdoor events. This includes players, match officials and spectators.
• Individual indoor training and one to one (player and coach) training is permitted. Please see detailed guidelines below for indoor training.

The following applies from 05^th July 2021 (subject to public health guidance): 

• A maximum of 200 may attend organised outdoor events.
• Indoor hockey can recommence in pods of up to 6.

Indoor Training Guidance 

The Sport Ireland Return to Sport Expert Group have issued detailed guidelines for the return of indoor training. These guidelines are expected to remain in place until at least July 05^th 2021 when restrictions may be eased further.

Please note: The following guidelines apply to Republic of Ireland only. For Northern Ireland, please find further details here: Return To Sport | Sport NI

Individual training is defined as: ‘Individual, physically distanced, non-contact activity, completed in a pre-defined area, within a controlled environment and without the sharing of equipment.

The following applies to indoor training:

1. Staggered start and finish times combined with appropriate entry, exit and traffic management protocols to limit the interaction of participants at any one time.
2. Prebooking of activity is essential. This includes the health screening of all participants (including coaches & support personnel). All personnel on-site should be recorded.
3. Reduction in the overall duration of the activity.
4. Participants arrive ready to train and leave immediately (no changing room or shower use).
5. Additional signage, hand sanitisation stations and deep cleaning implemented.
6. No equipment sharing in any circumstances.
7. Activity should take place in a predefined area which is visually marked out and directionally signed.
8. The space required in this area should reflect the nature and intensity of the activity.
9. There should be in excess of 2m social distancing between each of the predefined areas.
10. The Cleaning & Ventilation of facilities should be conducted in accordance with the Government’s most recent Work Safely Protocol. Additional information can also be found in the appendixes of this documents.

One to one (coach and player training – in line with safeguarding requirements – may proceed as follows:

1. Any demonstration of equipment or technique should ensure that a minimum of 2m social distancing is maintained.
2. Individual equipment should not be shared.
3. In the case of fixed equipment, cleaning of such equipment must be completed immediately after demonstration and before the individual participant uses it.
4. There should be no hands-on adjustments or physical contact during training sessions.
5. Coaches and trainers are asked to refer to the HSE guidance on wearing of face coverings, which is available here: When to wear a face covering – HSE.ie

Additional Points:

1. For clubs who wish to undertake one to one or individual training indoors, the above guidelines should incorporate the guidance outlined in this document into their existing Covid 19 Return to Training Policies and Procedures.
2. The guidelines assume an ongoing allowance of indoor activity as dictated by the Public Health Situation and whether sporting facilities are open.
3. The training must be supervised by a branch-registered Club Covid-19 Compliance Officer.

Clubs undertaking indoor activity must:

1. Implement thorough and regular cleaning of frequently touched surfaces. If disinfection of an area is required, it must be performed in addition to cleaning, never as a substitute for cleaning.
2. Ensure contact/touch surfaces such as table tops, door handles and handrails are visibly clean at all times. Additionally, sports equipment should be cleaned before and after use.
3. Provide coaches/ participants with essential cleaning materials to keep their own areas clean (for example wipes/disinfection products, paper towels and waste bins/bags).
4. Records should be maintained for all cleaning.

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   Hockey Ireland Coronavirus (COVID-19) UPDATE regarding changes to COVID-19 Restrictions.

06 May 2021

The following changes have been made to the Hockey Ireland Covid-19 guidelines given the latest announcement on Covid-19 restrictions made by the Irish (ROI) Government.

Please see the following link for more information: gov.ie – Level 5 (www.gov.ie)

Updated Guidelines:

Please note: These guidelines are applicable from 10^th May 2021.

1. Outdoor training for adults in pods of 15 (including a coach) may resume. This includes contact training.
2. Contact training for underage players may also resume in pods of 15 (including a coach).

From 07^th June 2021:

1. Outdoor (non-elite and club) matches and competitions may recommence.
2. These should be played behind closed doors, with only essential personnel in attendance.

Please be advised that the ‘Return to Training’ guidelines continue to apply.

For Northern Ireland (NI), there following guidelines continue to apply:

From 23rd April:

The following relates to non-elite level outdoor sport:

1. Outdoor sport organised by a club, individual or individuals affiliated will be extended to include squad training.
2. Competitive outdoor sport can be organised by a club, individual or individuals affiliated, with numbers (including participants, officials, management and essential support personnel) not exceeding 100 and no spectators permitted.

The ‘Return to Training’ guidelines should continue to apply.

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Hockey Ireland Coronavirus (COVID-19) UPDATE regarding changes to COVID-19 Restrictions.

23rd April 2021

The following changes have been made to the Hockey Ireland Covid-19 guidelines given the latest announcement on Covid-19 restrictions made by the Irish (ROI) Government. These changes are applicable from 26^th April 2021.

Please see the following link for more information: gov.ie – Level 5 (www.gov.ie)

Updated Guidelines:

1. Underage (U18) non-contact outdoor training in pods of 15 (including a coach) may resume.
2. All clubs must ensure that a branch registered Covid-19 Officer (CVO) attends all training sessions and undertakes the duties of the CVO only. Please see CVO job description document:
3. It is advised that clubs should update their Covid-19 risk assessment of club procedures and facilities before returning to training/playing. All returning members should be reminded of the club’s Covid-19 protocols.
4. The ‘Return to Training’ guidelines continue to apply.

The Northern Ireland (NI) Executive have issued the following guidance for NI from the 23^rd of April 2021.

Please see the following link for more information: http://www.sportni.net/pathway-out-of-restrictions-for-sport-update-16-april-2021/

The following relates to non-elite level outdoor sport:

1. Outdoor sport organised by a club, individual or individuals affiliated will be extended to include squad training.
2. Competitive outdoor sport can be organised by a club, individual or individuals affiliated, with numbers (including participants, officials, management and essential support personnel) not exceeding 100 and no spectators permitted.

The ‘Return to Training’ guidelines should continue to apply.

April 23rd 2021 Covid Update

Hockey Ireland Coronavirus (COVID-19) UPDATE regarding Government Announcement on Changes to COVID-19 Restrictions.

30th December 2020

The following changes have been made to the Hockey Ireland Covid-19 guidelines given the latest announcement on Covid-19 restrictions made by the Irish (ROI) Government.

Under Level 5, individual training only is permitted, within a 5km radius of an individual’s home. No matches or group training sessions are to take place.

The exemptions to this are Elite sports*.

Elite sports are permitted to continue behind closed doors. For Hockey this has been defined as the National Senior Men’s and Women’s Programmes. They are permitted to train and play behind closed doors.

*Please note: This category has been defined by the ‘Return to Sport Expert Group’ which has been established by the ROI government to provide guidance to Ireland’s sporting bodies to prepare for the phased return to sporting activity.

Competition/matches may not be played at any level.

December 30th 2020 Covid Update

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Hockey Ireland Coronavirus (COVID-19) UPDATE regarding Government Announcement regarding changes to restrictions.

23rd December 2020

The following changes have been made to the Hockey Ireland Covid-19 guidelines given the latest announcement on Covid-19 restrictions made by the Irish (ROI) Government.

Please note: These restrictions do not apply to Irish Senior International squads under Sport Ireland’s elite exemption.

As per Level 5 guidelines with the current adjustments announced on the 22^nd of December, adults and children in ROI continue to be allowed train outdoors where training is contained to non-contact pods of maximum 15 (including coaches/managers) and socially distanced at all time.

Competition/matches may not be played at any level.

December 23rd 2020 Covid Update

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Hockey Ireland Coronavirus (COVID-19) UPDATE regarding Government Announcement on reduced restrictions and return to training.

1^st December 2020

Hockey Ireland’s Covid-19 Group met today to discuss the recent announcements regarding Covid-19 restrictions made by the Irish (ROI) Government and the Northern Irish (NI) Executive.

The following changes have been made to Hockey Ireland Covid-19 guidelines:

(Please note: These restrictions do not apply to Irish Senior International squads under Sport Ireland’s elite exemption)

1. As per Level 3 guidelines, adults in ROI will be allowed to return to non-contact training with immediate effect. Training must be in pods of maximum 15 (including coaches/managers) and socially distanced at all time.
2. Competition/matches may not be played at any level.For All Ireland Competitions:

1. Hockey Ireland’s principle of all clubs competing on a level basis in relation to Covid-19 restrictions remains in place.
2. No All-Ireland hockey competition (EYHL1, EYHL2 or Cups) will start until a 4-week lead-in period has passed that would start from the point in time that training is allowed on the entire island of Ireland.
3. Training for EYHL clubs will be allowed if permitted under the Government rules but this will be reviewed once the current period of lockdown for Northern Ireland has passed on December 11^th.

1st December. Covid Update. Return to training

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Hockey Ireland Coronavirus (COVID-19) UPDATE regarding Government Announcement on reduced restrictions

27^th November 2020

As you may be aware, the Irish Government is meeting today to make the final decisions on how the country will exit Level 5.

A public announcement to communicate these plans is also due to follow.

We have been informed by Sport Ireland that the Sport Expert Group met today. However, they are not in a position to provide additional direction or individual confirmation to sports in advance of Government decisions.

Hockey Ireland is looking forward to further information from Sport Ireland before reviewing our guidance and protocols to enable a safe return to hockey activities, including training and competitions. We will be examining how the governments’ announcement may influence our existing protocols and will issue all our members with guidance as soon as possible.

Hockey Ireland would again like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding during this time.

Please keep safe. For further information on Covid-19: https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/coronavirus/coronavirus.html

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

If you have any further queries, please email info@hockey.ie

November Statement on Reduced restrictions

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COVID-19 Statement from Ulster Hockey in relation to Return to Junior Hockey.

13 November 2020

Please see the latest statement from Ulster Hockey in relation to Hockey in Northern Ireland, which states that “Subject to any change in restrictions announced by the Executive over the coming days which may override this decision, the Management Board has decided that with immediate effect, socially distant non-contact training in pods of 15 (inclusive of the coach) is permitted at all players/teams under 18 in both clubs and schools.  The return of senior hockey training remains under review pending future Executive announcements and discussions with Hockey Ireland.”

You can read the full update at https://ulsterhockey.com/covid-19-update-return-to-junior-hockey/

Hockey Ireland Coronavirus (COVID-19) UPDATE No. 10 regarding Level 5 COVID-19 Restrictions
21 October 2020

As of midnight, on Wednesday 21st October, the Republic of Ireland is moving to Level 5 COVID-19 restrictions. These restrictions will remain in place for a period of 6 weeks. The effect of these restrictions on Hockey activity have been highlighted below.

These restrictions will apply to all Clubs in the Republic of Ireland.

Under Level 5, individual training only is permitted, and no matches are to take place. The exemptions to this are:

1. Non-contact training can continue for school-aged children, outdoors in pods of 15. This means that at no point during the session should a player come within 2m of another player. Exercises involving tackling (such as 1v1s), marking or match play should not be undertaken.

2. Elite sports* are permitted to continue behind closed doors – For Hockey this has been defined as the National Senior Men’s and Women’s Programmes. They are permitted to train and play behind closed doors.

*Please note: This category has been defined by the ‘Return to Sport Expert Group’ which has been established by the ROI government to provide guidance to Ireland’s sporting bodies to prepare for the phased return to sporting activity.

Facilities & Travel:

It is permitted to open outdoor sports facilities for training sessions and scheduled matches for the exempted categories of sport, i.e. high performance.  It will also be permitted to open outdoor sports facilities for structured training sessions by school aged children, i.e. those aged 18 years and younger, in pods of no more than 15, under the supervision of designated coaches and in compliance with approved COVID-19 protocols and all relevant public health guidance.

During these training sessions, it will only be permitted for participants and relevant coaching and support personnel to be present. In the case of children’s sport, parents will be permitted to attend for child safeguarding purposes, however they will be required to comply with social distancing and other public health advice.

Under Level 5, while domestic travel restrictions do not allow movement outside of a 5-kilometre radius of home, it is permitted to take school-aged children to club training sessions. Club coaches may also travel to training sessions.

Northern Ireland

Ulster Hockey has advised that all hockey club training is suspended until 14 November 2020.  This coincides with the timing of the NI Executive’s current restrictions. Please check the Ulster Hockey website for the latest guidance.

Hockey Ireland will continue to follow the developments and will respond as soon as possible to any changes in the situation. Hockey Ireland would like to thank all branches and clubs that worked hard to get hockey competition back under the strict protocols.  We hope we will be back again as soon as possible.

The Hockey Ireland Return to Play and Competition Protocol will be updated shortly and available at https://hockey.ie/covid-19/

Please see below for current clarification on Level 5.

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Update 15th October 2020:

HOCKEY COMPETITION ON HOLD

On Wednesday 14 October, the Irish government announced the removal of the exemption for senior club championship to be played in Level 3 of the Living with Covid-19 plan.

Following this change, the Board of Hockey Ireland has decided to postpone all hockey competition on an all-Ireland basis until further notice.  Training can proceed subject to Hockey Ireland protocols and restrictions and any restrictions that may apply locally.

This also means that the Interprovincial Competitions scheduled for the end of October are postponed. Hockey Ireland recognises the time and energy the Interprovincial Working Group and the provincial teams have put into the preparations for these games. Suitable dates for the running of the competitions will be considered.

Elite hockey activity can proceed, and this applies to the Irish Senior Men and Irish Senior Women’s teams only.

Hockey Ireland would like to acknowledge the work of the clubs that has gone into hosting games over the last few weeks.  The support of volunteers to follow the protocols and keep our players safe has been phenomenal.  We must endeavour to keep club hockey activity going whilst we continue to observe Covid-19 guidelines and hopefully, we can resume competition soon.

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PREVIOUS COVID-19 UPDATES

From the morning of Wednesday, October 7th, hockey clubs under the jurisdiction of the Government of Ireland will be subject to Level 3 restrictions as per their Plan For Living With COVID-19. These restrictions will be in place for a period of 3 weeks.

The guidelines are available to view below.

The document is based on the Plan For Living With COVID-19 as well as guidance Hockey Ireland has received from Sport Ireland and the government’s Return To Sport Expert Group.

Resources outlined to help clubs adhere to Level 3 restrictions continue to be available at: https://hockey.ie/covid-19/

Hockey Ireland and Ulster Hockey are closely following the situation for clubs under the jurisdiction of the Northern Ireland Executive and will update where appropriate.

Hockey Ireland released its updated COVID protocols on the 25^th of September. These protocols can be accessed here: Hockey Ireland Return to Play and Competition Protocols 22 September 2020.pdf

Hockey Ireland have outlined guidance for training and matches at each Level of ROI Government restrictions. Under Level 3,

• non-contact training may take place, however only in pods of up to 15*.
• no matches are to take place, including friendlies*.
• No spectators are permitted.

Under ROI Government guidelines, exemptions for these protocols are as follows: *Professional/elite/inter-county sports.  For Hockey Ireland this means elite hockey activity can proceed, and this applies to the Irish Senior Men and Irish Senior Women’s teams only.

We hope to update you as soon as possible in the coming days.

Please see below for current clarification on Level 3.

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