Hockey WA COVID-19 Update I 17 May 2022

Hockey WA’s  COVID Plan is in line with the WA Government Level 2 Public Health and Social Measures and the WA Department of Health Guidance.

Following testing positive to COVID-19 or being a close contact as per the WA Health definitions; a person must isolate and follow all current WA Health protocols for Quarantine and isolation.

For further information visit the WA Health website WA Health COVID-19 (coronavirus)

In terms of hockey, the following guidelines apply;

Managing the infection and transmission risk

1. For Individuals:

a. If COVID-like symptoms are present, people must:

1. Not attend training and/or any Hockey WA club or facility.
2. Go for a PCR test or take a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT).
3. Advise their club via their Team Manager or Coach of their test results.

b. If a positive test is returned (either RAT or PCR), it is a government requirement to:

1. Register your result with the Department of Health.
2. Isolate at home for a minimum of seven days or;
3. until acute symptoms have resolved, e.g., fever, aches/pains, short of breath (if they have persisted beyond the seven days).

c. If players are around club environments, it is advisable that all medical guidelines are adhered to. Players can consider returning to outdoor training, still observing social distancing.

d. Due to the possibility that the infected person may still be shedding the virus between Day 8 and 10, Hockey WA prefer that players do not return to indoor facilities or training at any hockey facilities or venues, until Day 10. (provided they are asymptomatic at day 7).

On Day 10, if asymptomatic, athletes can return to all group, indoor and outdoor activities. There is no requirement  to do a repeat RAT test before entry.

Managing the athlete’s initial return to training post COVID-19

Once the isolation period is completed (as per WA health guidelines) the individual should contact their Team Manager or Coach to discuss the return to training and playing.

Returning to training and playing should be under the club's direction, in conjunction with the player and their doctor (if appropriate).

While each individual will experience differences in the severity and number of symptoms, a sensible graded return should be considered for all players. Return to training and playing, is based on the athlete's symptoms and exercise tolerance. It should be  noted that some individuals may experience some persisting fatigue and cough for 1-2 weeks, affecting their ability to reach maximal exertion. There is NO evidence that maximal exercise in these first few weeks is dangerous, but instead, it may impact short term performance and possibly delay recovery.