ELTC COVID-19 UPDATE – 17/12/2020

Dear Member

We have been made aware that a member has contracted Covid-19. All those members who played tennis with that member in the last few days have been informed of the position. We understand that the advice from NHS Test and Trace is that, provided we continue to abide by the rules when playing tennis (ie maintain social distancing at all times and only use our own balls), there is no requirement to self-isolate if we have played tennis with someone who becomes infected. Please remain cautious and considerate of others. For example, we understand that some members who have played with the infected person have decided to stop their tennis activity for a period of time, even though they have no symptoms and are not required to self-isolate, in order to minimise the risk to others.

If someone who has played at our Club tests positive for COVID-19, they should follow the Government’s ‘test and trace’ guidelines, which can be read on the Gov.uk website, and, additionally, email [email protected] to inform the Club so that appropriate cleaning and other measures can be put in place.

Following the announcement that Harpenden will be moving into Tier 3 this Saturday, I also wanted to update you with the implications for our Club. Thankfully we are allowed to keep the club open for social play, coaching and competitions. So what changes as a result of moving to Tier 3?

• Spectating will not be allowed. That said, parent/guardian supervision is permitted (one per player).
• Avoid travel in or out of affected area to participate other than:
  • for work or education purposes (e.g. coaches, elite athletes, officials)
  • where it is necessary to enable organised/supervised tennis activity for U18s, disability tennis activity, organised education activity or same household/bubble play

The LTA have not updated their guidance since early December. However, given the rule changes announced by the Government, it may change again soon. We will update you whenever there are material changes in LTA guidance. We expect anyone who attends the club to be familiar with the contents of the two documents entitled “LTA guidance for tennis players” and “Summary Grid – Tennis Activity by Tier”. See links below:

Summary Grid – Tennis Activity by Tier

lta-guidance-for-tennis-players—covid-19

lta-guidance-for-tennis-venues—covid-19

lta-guidance-for-tennis-coaches—covid-19

Best wishes for a safe and healthy holiday season.

Eric Rovick

ELTC Chairman