December 20th, 2021Return to Sport

This update outlines the latest PHO order as of Dec. 22 concerning Gatherings and Events

The PHO Order on Gatherings and Events has been updated with restrictions on sport tournaments, spectator capacity and recreational sport. To reflect these changes, viaSport has updated their Return to Sport Restart 2.0 chart with specific details. To summarize:

Sport tournaments are not allowed at this time
Spectators: seated and standing capacity is at 50%
Adult indoor and mixed-age sport and recreation programs (including pool-based) are at 50% of capacity/occupancy of the space
Interprovincial travel and international travel for sport is not advised

The intention of the Order is to allow sport to continue in a paired-back version where we will need to exercise our best judgement on how to proceed as safe as possible.

For example, now is not the time for certain types of activities or competitions to proceed (e.g., regional tournaments, social events, inter-provincial travel, etc).

Activities

Activities that take place in a sport environment are allowed, but this does not include fitness centres or workout gyms.
Coaching courses, or other similar activities, are subject to 50% of the occupancy rate of the space.

Sport Restrictions:

1. Sport tournaments are not allowed at this time

Tournaments are a single or multi-day gathering of three or more sport teams, who come together outside regular league play but does not include:

A gathering where team members compete on an individual basis against members of other teams, or
A gathering where the result will decide if a team will advance to play in a national or international competition.

Interprovincial travel and international travel for sport is not advised.
All activities that would typically take place in a sport environment (other than tournaments) may continue.

Exercise & Fitness:

Indoor individual and group adult fitness and exercise activities within fitness facilities (e.g. exercise studios, dance studios, and workout gyms) are not permitted

Recreation:

Adult indoor and mixed-age sport and recreation programs (including pool-based) are at 50% of capacity/occupancy of the space
Children and youth programs can remain at 100% capacity/occupancy

As we continue to strive to provide a safe training environment for all participants (players, coaches, and support staff} Basketball BC strongly supports and recommends the use of masks and maintaining physical distancing whenever possible.

December 2, 2021
Update # 21

This update outlines the latest PHO orders, travel restrictions and updates with regards to changes and guidance related to sport.

1) viaSport has updated the Return to Sport Restart 2.0 chart to reflect what they know about new regional health orders:

The additional restrictions that were in place in Interior Health have been lifted. Activities can now be aligned with the PHO Order on Gatherings and Events.
Northern Health has released a chart explaining the differences between its regional health orders and the PHO Order. Sport-related guidance now aligns with the PHO Order on Gatherings and Events, except that:
- Indoor and outdoor sporting events are limited to 50% spectator capacity
- Events must have a COVID-19 safety plan
The regional health orders for Fraser East (effective September 28, 2021) remain in place.

2) During the province-wide state of emergency related to extreme weather and flooding, decisions to travel for sport should be made on a case-by-case basis. On severely damaged highways, remember that sport is not considered essential travel. Aside from those restrictions, individuals and sport organizations will need to assess their own risk factors when determining whether to travel or host events. The latest information is available on the Province’s Travel and fuel restrictions page, and TranBC’s Current Road Advisories page.

As we continue to strive to provide a safe training environment for all participants (players, coaches, and support staff), Basketball BC strongly supports and recommends the use of masks and maintaining physical distancing whenever possible.

November 18, 2021
Update #20

A revised PHO Order on Gatherings and Events was released yesterday with several updates that are relevant to sport. The major changes to be aware of are:

Outdoor events do not require proof of vaccination, which includes supervisors of all sport programs and events (Section D.1.)
For indoor sport programs and events, the Order now clarifies that parents and volunteer supervisors of youth, are required to show proof of vaccination. We now have clearer language around who this includes:
- Those who receive an honorarium, or something similar, are considered volunteers (Section D.8.a)
- Parents, even if required to be present for a youth sport activity; this includes parent and tot classes (D.8.b).
- Anyone volunteering with children/youth, which includes those 21 and under (Section D.9)
For indoor sport programs and events, the Order now clarifies that individuals who are employed to lead, supervise, or assist with a program for children and youth are exempt from showing Proof of Vaccination (D.3)

viaSport has updated their chart to reflect the changes.

October 29, 2021
Update #19

The provincial government’s October 25 Gathering and Events Order is now in effect.

viaSport is currently working to update their chart with regards to sport implications and will publish as soon as possible.

Updates to proof of vaccination requirements and capacity restrictions

The Order defines a “participant” as anyone at an event, which includes spectators, but does not include anyone attending in an official capacity as an organizer, supervisor, official, volunteer or event staff. For sport, however, the Order states that an adult (19+) leading, supervising, or assisting a sport program for children and youth must have received two doses of vaccine. (Section D.7 and D. 8). This includes coaches, volunteers, and officials for indoor and outdoor sport.

Youth 21 and under participating in sport are still exempt from showing proof of vaccination.

For indoor sport, adult participants 22 and older must show proof of vaccination.

Spectators (19+) for children, youth and adult indoor sport must show proof of vaccination. The previous exemption for events under 50 people is no longer in place for sport.

Records of vaccination: Organizers are allowed to keep written records of proof of vaccination from participants, if they have written consent from the participant to do so. These records may only be kept for the purposes of confirming that a participant has been vaccinated and can be kept until this Order expires or is repealed.

Capacity restrictions: The Provincial Health Order has removed indoor capacity restrictions; however, regional restrictions still currently apply in Fraser East, Interior Health and Northern Health (east of Kitwanga). For further information and updated regional restrictions refer to the Province of B.C.'s provincial and regional restrictions page.

Basketball BC will continue to update our membership and provincial basketball community with regards to restrictions, guidelines, and recommendations as we receive them.

October 1, 2021
Update # 18

viaSport Update

viaSport updated Chart was released on Weds Sept 29. It highlights the latest Ministry of Health adjustments and restrictions to the Sport Sector Restart.
It includes:
- Interior Health’s additional restrictions
- Fraser East restrictions - please note that they are still working to clarify spectator guidelines, so those restrictions are not mentioned in this chart.
- Proof of Vaccination (double dose) is REQUIRED for adult indoor sport in the Interior Health region and Fraser East region
- The interpretation on mixed ages has changed. Youth who participate in programming that is primarily intended for adults must show Proof of Vaccination – e.g., a team consisting of participants who are 20 years of age and play in an adult league would need to show proof of vaccination.
- Proof of Vaccination is not needed in Youth Sport for Adult Supervisors who are directly involved in the delivery of youth sport which includes coaches, officials, team managers, and volunteers.
viaSport has also updated their FAQ Page – this section helps clarify many aspects regarding application of the current restrictions and guidelines.

Basketball BC will continue to update our membership and provincial basketball community with regards to restrictions, guidelines, and recommendations as we receive them.

As we continue to strive to provide a safe training environment for all participants (players, coaches and support staff} Basketball BC strongly supports and recommends the use of masks and maintaining physical distancing whenever possible.

September 14, 2021
Update # 17

Pandemic Passport Sport Implications

The Pandemic Passport Order was released on Sat. Sept. 11. and takes effect Monday, September 13, 2021.
The intention of the Order is three-fold:
- It is being implemented as part of the government’s program to increase vaccination levels in BC.
- It is being implemented so public services (employment and other essential services) can continue.
- It is being implemented so that programming for children and youth can continue
The Order can be found here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/covid-19/covid-19-pho-order-gatherings-events.pdf
Currently viaSport is working on an updated Return to Sport chart.
For information on the overall Proof of Vaccination Program, please visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/vaccinecard.html

Key components of the Order for Indoor Sport
- Youth are exempt from the Proof of Vaccination program,
- The definition of youth is “persons under 22 years of age”
- Youth sport has no max. number for participants
- Adults that are supervising and supporting Youth Sports are exempt from the order.
- Adults (those 22 and older) must show proof of vaccination for indoor and outdoor sport
viaSport is currently seeking clarity from the PHO on a number of items including:
- Who specifically comes under the term “supervising Youth Sport” and is exempt from youth sport? (ie coaches, trainers, officials, volunteers, parents)
- Who counts as spectators for ticketed events and sport activities?
- How best to deal with vaccine passport verification requests

Additional details of the Order for Sport:

Spectators at ticketed indoor events will require Proof of Vaccination.
Spectators at non-ticketed indoor events for youth sport up to 50 do not need to show Proof of Vaccination.
Facility operators are likely to ask sport organizations to take responsibility for their Proof of Vaccination implementation.

Additional Interior Health restrictions:

Those on the field of play (participants, staff/volunteers, officials, coaches) do not count towards the total number allowed for events.
Spectators do count toward the total number allowable for events.
50 are allowed indoor and 100 are allowed outdoor.

August 27, 2021
Update #16 - Update for Interior Health Region

This is the latest information regarding BC Restart plan regarding Step 3 and Interior Health

Within the province Step 3 of BC’s Restart plan is currently in effect; however, those in the Interior Health region are subject to additional measures.

Interior Health has just released their updated information on sport restrictions https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/provincial-and-regional-restrictions/.

A couple notes to highlight:

Competition is allowed
Spectators are allowed (up to 50 indoor and 100 outdoor). As always, this is at the discretion of the facility operator.

viaSport has updated their website to reflect these changes.

Aug. 23, 2021
Update #15 - Return to Step 2 for Interior Health Region

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise in B.C.’s Southern Interior, provincial officials announced on Friday Aug. 20 they are extending the current restrictions to the entire Interior Health region.

This means that as the province will continue to be in Step 3 of B.C.’s Restart plan, the Interior Health region is in Step 2.

Step 2 mandates the following restrictions for sport participation

Outdoor sport

Recreational travel, including for sport, allowed within BC
Maximum group size is 50 for adults (i.e. 22 and over). That 50-person count includes participants, coaches, managers, trainers, and other persons involved in an official capacity
No maximum group size for children and youth (i.e. those under 22)
Physical distance not required on field of play (i.e. contact is allowed). Off field of play, physical distance of 2 m must be maintained.
Up to 50 spectators
Masks not required

Indoor sport

Recreational travel, including for sport, allowed within B.C.
Maximum group size is 50 for children/youth and adults. That 50-person count includes participants, coaches, managers, trainers, and other persons involved in an official capacity
Physical distance not required on field of play (i.e. contact is allowed). Off field of play, physical distance of 2 m must be maintained
Field of play: no masks required
Off the field of play: masks required
No spectators

High-performance sport

CSI-Pacific identified carded athletes do not have a maximum group size for outdoor sport activities but must adhere to all other Step 2 rules.

More information can be found on the Basketball BC Restart plan that outlines both Step 2 and Step 3 guidelines.

Also additional information including can be found on the viaSport website and their FAQ page

July 5, 2021
Update #14 - Return to Sport Restart 2.0

On July 1st we entered Step 3 of the Provincial Restart Plan

As we progress through the summer with the proposed provincial schedule for opening up for sport, it is imperative that we continue to follow government legislation with regards to Public Health Orders.

Information regarding the 4-step BC Government plan regarding loosening of restrictions can be found at the BC Government Restart Plan. As well, information regarding all current provincial restrictions can be accessed at BC COVID information.

To help guide the sport sector in navigating this Return to Sport, viaSport has outlined the various steps involved in the updated Return to Sport Restart 2.0. It lists the most current directives and will continue to be a source of the most updated information regarding restrictions and guidelines.

Step 3 – New Guidelines and Restrictions

Mask mandate is lifted and removed. Masks are not required for outdoor or indoor sports. It is recommended for those 12 and over who have not been fully vaccinated to wear masks while indoors and away from the field of play.
There are no physical distancing requirements in any setting (indoor or outdoor)
General Restrictions on events are lifted.
- Outdoors - No Max number for group size
- Indoor -Spectators up to 50 or 50% of capacity whichever is greater. Facilities and municipalities may add additional guidelines and requirements with regards to capacity i.e. group size and spectators.
In Canada travel restrictions are lifted. Inter provincial travel and competition across Canada is allowed.
A Covid Safety Plan is now not required.
Pre-Screening and/or Contact Tracing requirement is discontinued.
Facilities and Organizations are encouraged to follow the current guidelines and requirements from Worksafe BC.
Having a Communicable disease prevention plan is recommended by public health.
To assist clubs and organizations, WorkSafeBC has developed Communicable disease prevention: A guide for employers and organizations. This guide describes a four-step process to help reduce the risk of communicable disease which involves understanding the level of risk, application of the fundamentals and implementing appropriate measures, communicating policies and protocols to all participant, and updating measures and safeguards as required.

Although not required Basketball BC also recommends that all participants be encouraged to do their own personal screening. It is also prudent for Clubs and Organizations to keep an updated and accurate attendance and participation list.

For information regarding specific situations access viaSport FAQ page

Best of luck to all as we continue to progress and navigate our way back to competitive basketball within the province.

June 18, 2021

Return to Sport – Restart Plan for Basketball 2.0

On May 25, the provincial government introduced the 4-step BC Restart Plan for the provincial sport sector.

Based on the provincial Restart Plan, we have revised our guidelines for basketball’s phased return to play in The Return to Sport - Restart Plan for Basketball 2.0. It is designed to help organizations in planning their return to competitive play and inform parents and players on how each of the steps in the Restart plan will affect their basketball training and what rules apply for competition and facility use (i.e. spectators, social distancing, masking etc.).

This document outlines the changes and implications for basketball that occurred in Step 1 (May 25) and the changes that occurred in Step 2 (June 15).

Please note we are now following the guidelines and protocols that abide with the changes that were legislated on June 15 in Step 2.

We will be updating our Restart 2.0 document periodically as we progress through future Steps of re-opening.

June 14, 2021Update #13 – 2021
Restart Plan for Basketball 2.0 - Release Delayed by viaSport

On May 25, the provincial government introduced the 4-step BC Restart Plan for the provincial sport sector. This plan immediately allowed for outdoor basketball for all ages to resume, including practices and games.

On June 15 (Step 2), additional loosening of restrictions for both outdoor and indoor basketball will occur. Based on the provincial Restart Plan, we have revised our guidelines for basketball’s gradual phased return to play in The Return to Sport - Restart Plan for Basketball 2.0.

The Restart Plan outlines the changes and implications for basketball that occurred in Step 1 and 2 of the provincial restart plan. It is designed to help organizations in planning their return to competitive play and inform parents and players on how each of the steps in the Restart plan will affect their basketball training and what rules apply for competition and facility use (i.e. spectators, social distancing, masking etc.).

PSO’s have been directed to wait for clarity from viaSport regarding specifics regarding maximum group and spectator size and as well as details regarding provincial travel before releasing their sport specific Restart Plan. Once we receive confirmation of these details we will be posting on our website and sending The Restart Plan for Basketball 2.0 to our membership.

June 3, 2021
Update #12 – 2021

Return to Sport Restart 2.0

As we progress through the summer with the proposed provincial schedule for opening up for sport with the loosening of restrictions, it is imperative that we continue to follow government legislation with regards to Public Health Orders.

This schedule of transition between the steps is always dependent on case counts, hospitalizations, and vaccination rates.

To help guide the sport sector in navigating this Return to Sport, viaSport has outlined the various steps involved in the Return to Sport Restart 2.0. It lists the most current directives and will continue to be a source of the most updated information regarding restrictions and guidelines.

For indoor sports, the same restrictions that were in place prior to May 25 are still required.

3 m physical distancing required for children and adults on field of play.
Adult sport limited to two people.
No spectators
Travel to home club only (and cannot cross travel zones)

Although basketball is considered an indoor sport, during the spring/summer season, organizations may look to take their training and competition outdoors i.e., 3 X 3 etc. Outdoor basketball is required to follow the May 25 directive regarding outdoor sport.

Practices and competition allowed for youth and adults within their home club.
- No travel or inter-club play is allowed.
- Competition should be occurring in the same locality throughout (A team cannot play in North Van one week, then Burnaby the next, and Vancouver the week after that. -viaSport)
Physical distance is not required on field of play (contact is allowed). Off field of play, physical distance of 2 m must be maintained.
Travel allowed to home club only (and cannot cross travel zones)
NO SPECTATORS
Maximum group size for adults and varsity sport is 50 (if group is a mix of youth and adult, a 50-person maximum must be followed)
- Adults and Varsity have a max of 50 participants on the field of play for outdoors, but off the field of play the limit is 10 for social gatherings.
No maximum group size for youth to allow for more flexibility (e.g., adult supervision)

Group size needs to reflect the size of facility since basketball would not be played on the size of a soccer field/complex the number should be far less.

For information regarding specific situations access viaSport FAQ page

Prior to June 15, Basketball BC will be posting a revised Return to Sport plan specifically for basketball as we progress to Step two (June 15 at the earliest) with restrictions being loosened for Indoor Sport.

May 28, 2021
Update #11 – 2021

This week’s announcement from the provincial government and health office was great news for the entire provincial sport sector, regarding a timeline for opening up for sport and the loosening of restrictions that will eventually get us all back on the court playing and training.

This initial step impacts only Outdoor sport and activity, with further relaxation of restrictions for indoor sport planned for June 15.

Below is a summary of main points:

These current loosening of restrictions apply with no differentiation between Children / Youth / Adult.
Provincial Opening of outdoor sport and games, including outdoor basketball, starting May 25.
- No Physical Distancing Requirements – so competitive play is allowed.
- Travel restrictions are still in place.
  - Stay Local - Competition should stay within your own home club
- No Spectators allowed
- Mask not needed in field of play.
- Outside of field of play – Mask and Physical Distancing is still required.
Indoor Sport requirements do not change or move forward at this time. Physical Distancing of 3 metres at all times, travel restrictions etc. are still in place. No competitive play whether games or drills allowed for indoor basketball. Anticipated loosening of restrictions for indoor sport on June 15.
Whether they are for indoor or outdoor sport, the current guidelines and protocols regarding Safety Plans, Contact Tracing etc. stay in place and are required.
Proposed timeline for further loosening of restrictions for the sport sector includes the following dates for new guidelines.
- June 15
- July 1
- Sept 7

Latest information regarding sport specific guidelines and loosening of restrictions can be found at viaSport Return to Sport.

Detailed information regarding the 4-step BC Government plan regarding loosening of restrictions can be found at the BC Government Restart Plan.

May 19, 2021
Update #10 – 2021

This update focusses on the Return to Sport as it relates to the current provincial restrictions. Recently Dr. Bonny Henry reiterated that no decision has been made as to whether restrictions will be lifted and that we will hear an update after the May long weekend. viaSport has directed all Provincial Sport Organizations to share the following message.

Specific to return to sport, Dr. Henry mentioned that outdoor sport will be more permissive than indoor sport when some restrictions are lifted. She also stated that there will be a gradual return to sport, and although outdoor sport will be the focus, it’s important that clubs/organizations and their members understand that this doesn’t mean they can immediately begin operating the way they did before the pandemic.

To help with your planning, viaSport has prepared some key messages and information to share directly with our members and basketball community. Guidance on the Return to Sport in BC May 2021

Additional guidance and information regarding current travel restrictions for Sport can be found at the viaSportTravel Reminder

May 14, 2021
Update #9 – 2021

This update focusses on anticipated changes with regards to loosening of current restrictions.

viaSport has advised us that they are anticipating an easing of restrictions in the coming weeks/month for the sport sector.
Proposed timeline includes a conservative opening with an easing of some restrictions first, with a more progressive opening thereafter.
The plan that is being constructed will be a Return to Sport that focusses on 3 levers.
- Contact
- Travel
- Competition (Indoor/Outdoor with Outdoor being the better space for competition)

viaSport is not able to speculate on the details, but we do anticipate a focus on outdoor sport. Please note that all of these anticipated changes are based on a continued provincial decrease in Covid cases and projections. Therefore, timelines are difficult to predict, as any loosening of restrictions is subject to current Covid conditions.

April 30, 2021
Update #8 – 2021

This update focuses on the new Travel Restrictions and implications for the Sport Sector. The update has links to both viaSport and Provincial Govt. websites to further aid in clarification.

The new order further restricts non-essential travel between health authority regions, which are:

"Northern-Interior Health Authority region": Northern Health Authority region; the Interior Health Authority region; the local health areas of Bella Coola Valley, Central Coast and Hope.
“Fraser-Vancouver Coastal Health Authority region": the Fraser Health Authority region and the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority region, excluding the local health areas of Bella Coola Valley and Central Coast.
“Island Health Authority region”

For sport, this means that travel to home clubs or high-performance athlete travel that crosses the travel restriction boundaries is not allowed. Any travel that is related to sport across one of the three zones needs to be postponed until at least after May 24.

As before, teams and groups of participants can only travel to their home club and that club needs to be close to the participants’ residence. These details are included in the viaSport updated Spring Travel Reminder.

The overall intent of the order is to minimize travel even within health authorities.

The sport-restriction section on the provincial government’s website has been updated to better reflect the Public Health Order. You can see those changes here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/info/restrictions.

April 16, 2021
Update #7 – 2021 LATEST UPDATE FROM VIASPORT

THE AMATEUR SPORT LEAGUE FUND (ASLF)

The Province is providing $15 million for non-profit and for-profit B.C.-based amateur leagues and teams competing at the provincial, national or international level.
This fund will be distributed as relief funding for existing leagues and teams
Detailed guidelines are under development and more information will soon be available here: https://www.viasport.ca/grant/amateur-sport-league-fund

GUIDELINES 2.5/2.25

viaSport is currently working with the Provincial Health Office on revisions for the proposed 2.25 and 2.5 guidelines. We expect more information will be forthcoming as these guidelines are developed.

TRAVEL REMINDERS FOR SPORT

The high-performance exemption in the PHO Order only applies to athletes who have already been training in B.C.
Public health has made it very clear that travel needs to be limited in sport. The home club concept has provided the sport sector some flexibility compared to strict borders within municipalities / neighbourhoods / health boundaries. It is critically important we follow the intention of the Order in relation to travel for sport or a policy change will be considered. viaSport has updated their Travel Reminder to reflect these policy changes.

MASK MANDATE FOR EXERCISE

The update to the PHO Order requiring masks for exercise does not apply to sport activities. That said, there are a lot of grey areas between “exercise” and “sport.” Sport organizations will need to assess risk and weigh public perception to decide whether to implement safety measures that exceed those currently required by the Order. This may mean that an organization decides to require their participants to wear masks depending on their circumstances.

March 22, 2021 Updated, March 25, 2021
Update #6 - 2021

Ongoing transmission within the province has resulted in a slowdown in the process of re-opening sport, so we continue t, 202o be in a holding pattern.
Currently, there is no set date for further loosening of restrictions.
When restrictions are eased it will be through a very cautious approach with more leniency given to youth sport.
The current plan will be a return to sport that focusses on loosening of restrictions in three areas.
- Contact
- Travel
- Competition.
Currently there are two possible plans viaSport has proposed to PHO
- RTS 2.25 that would allow for only competition within your own club/ training group and continuing to impose travel restrictions.
- RTS 2.5 that would allow for competition within 2 or 3 clubs

UPDATE ON ADULT SPORT AND REMINDER ABOUT TRAVEL FOR SPORT
viaSport has posted further clarification regarding what participants and clubs should know about Adult Sport and Travel for Sport .

FAQ’S
With changes to the PHO Order being made over the last week there has been a number of questions from the sport community. FAQ on the PHO Order is now updated and available on the VIASPORT website.

March 3, 2021
Update #5 – 2021

Basketball BC received the following clarification from viaSport BC regarding the current PHO orders with regards to club participation and travel restrictions.

viaSport BC outlined that the intention of the current PHO Order is to increase physical distance between individuals, decrease the number of people who encounter one another, and reduce travel.

In support of the current PHO order viaSport outlined the following 3 points for compliance for all sports:

Players cannot be participating in two home clubs.
Players that are not registered with your club and participating in another club are not allowed to be invited into your club program activity, until this restriction is loosened.
Under the current order clubs are not allowed running programming whereby evaluations of players outside their club are taking place.

What if the participant hasn’t been part of any club activity, can they try out/be part of our club activity?

Yes, they can join that club’s program. That would be the same as registering for a new program. What we are limiting is the ability for participant A to be part of 2 or more programs at the same time.

March, 1, 2021
Update #4 – 2021

On Thursday Feb.25, the Office of the Public Health Officer and Minister of Health indicated that the current provincial restrictions are to remain in effect. In their statement, they said that they are closely monitoring cases and rates of transmission and are looking ahead as to when it will be it safe to increase our social interactions in a limited way, which could include opportunities for sport.

As a reminder, the restrictions currently in place for sport are outlined here.

We know how difficult this news can be, but we are encouraged by the continued efforts and commitment displayed by the basketball community to stay safe and protect each other. We continue to stress to our sport community the importance of focusing on what we can do rather than what we cannot do.

Stay Safe – Stay Healthy

February 8, 2021
Update #3 – 2021

The Province of B.C. announced on Friday Feb. 5th that the current public health restrictions are being kept in place. While there have not been updates to the restrictions for sport, this means that the following key items remain in place:

Individuals are permitted to travel to their home club for the purpose of sport, while following all restrictions in the current public health Order.
The clarifications from January 7 on "group sport" remain applicable to adult sport.
The high-performance exemption remains in effect for athletes identified by CSI-Pacific and their Provincial or National Sport organization.
The specifications around children and youth sport remain unchanged. Games and tournaments are temporarily suspended for teams.
The Intercollegiate varsity sport exemption allows for athletes to train or practice only with the post-secondary institution with which they are enrolled.

More details on the information can be found on the viaSport website or FAQ page.

We know how difficult this news can be, but we are encouraged by the efforts and commitment displayed by the basketball community to stay safe and protect each other. We continue to stress to our sport community the importance of focusing on what we can do rather than what we can’t do.

Stay Safe – Stay Healthy

January 20, 2021
Update #2 - 2021

Updated Basketball BC Return to Sport Plan - January 20, 2021

January 14, 2021
Update #1 – 2021

As a reminder, the current PHO Order has been extended and will be in place until February5, 2021, at which time government officials will determine if extensions or changes are required based on COVID-19 transmission data. The intent of this Order is to reduce risk provincially and aid in managing contact tracing. viaSport outlines these restrictions on their latest update

As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, viaSport and Basketball BC remains committed to keeping sport communities in B.C. safe and healthy at all levels. viaSport has been working with Canadian Sport Institute-Pacific (CSI-P), the Province of B.C. and Own the Podium to ensure the sport system across Canada is aligned on the issue of interprovincial travel. The following statement from viaSport is the correct interpretation of the British Columbia Public Health Order on Gathering and Events, which is in effect until February 5, 2021, as they relate to travel for high-performance athletes:

Under the current B.C. public health order, there is an exemption for high performance athletes for the purpose of training, competing, and travelling for sport within B.C.

High-performance athletes are defined as: a person who is identified by the Canadian Sport Institute Pacific as a high-performance athlete affiliated with an accredited provincial or national sports organization.

· In order to be a Canadian Sport Institute – Pacific identified athlete, nominations must be made through B.C. accredited Provincial Sport Organizations or National Sport Organizations who have athletes federally funded through Sport Canada.

· A person who is a high-performance athlete who is already training in British Columbia may train, practice, compete and travel for that purpose if the person follows the COVID-19 safety protocols of the provincial or national sports organization with which the person is affiliated. To be clear, the athlete must already be training in B.C. to qualify for the exemption.

· High performance athletes in B.C. must adhere to all other aspects of the public health Order and their PSO and/or NSO COVID-19 Safety Plan.

These restrictions are by order of the Provincial Health Officer to limit the amount of physical, social interactions, and travel, to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in B.C. These requirements apply to all amateur sports across the province and we thank you for your ongoing cooperation.

Charlene Krepiakevich CEO, viaSport British Columbia

New 2.5 Sector Guidelines

As mentioned in our last update, we anticipate a new 2.5 set of Sector Guidelines to be released from viaSport sometime in 2021. These guidelines have not yet been released due to the current COVID activity in the province. (We do not anticipate any changes to Sector guidelines prior to Feb. 5). Once we receive any adjustments or modifications to the Sector Guidelines, we will inform our membership and provincial basketball community and apply them to our Basketball Return to Sport Guidelines.

December 29, 2020
Update #22

Some new clarifications have been made to the restrictions announced in the latest Provincial Health written Order. viaSport has updated their website and FAQs to reflect this updated information.

As a reminder, this PHO Order is in place until January 8, 2021, at which time government officials will determine if extensions or changes are required based on COVID-19 transmission data.

Clarifications include:

“Adult team sport” revised to “group sport”: Group sport is defined as sporting activities involving more than one person and includes training and practice for an individual or a team sport, but does not include sport for children or youth, varsity sport or high-performance athlete sport. Group sport (i.e. sport for those 22 years of age or older) is only permitted in groups of up to two people (e.g. singles tennis or an athlete and a coach training session). Outdoor group sport is only permitted in groups of up to four people (e.g. four individuals may run together or four individuals could run soccer drills). All participants must maintain a distance of three metres from one another while participating in the sport activity. While this order provides clarity, it is important to remember the intent is to limit group gathering. For example, individuals should not be playing a sport with four people and then switching teams to another group of four during the same time slot.

Travel to home club: Individuals are permitted to travel to their home club for the purpose of sport. Home club is defined as the sport organization, club, or facility at which a person is registered for ongoing sport programming. Individuals should not carpool with other participants.

High performance exemption: High performance athletes are individuals who have been identified to a targeted athlete list with the Canadian Sport Institute Pacific by their respective Provincial Sport Organization or National Sport Organization. A person, who is a high-performance athlete who is already training in B.C. may train, compete, and travel for that purpose if they follow the COVID safety protocols of their respective provincial or national sport organization.

Sport for children and youth means an activity which is delivered by a provincial sport organization or a local sport organization and may include participants who are under 22 years of age but does not include varsity sports. The PHO Order for Events and Gatherings differentiates between adult and youth sport activities.

Intercollegiate varsity sport exemption: Varsity sport is defined in the order as a sport for which the eligibility requirements for participation are established by a national association for the regulation of intercollegiate athletics, or which is designated as a varsity sport program by a post-secondary institution. Individuals of any age may participate in varsity sport if they are a member of a varsity sport team and they only train or practice with the post-secondary institution with which they are enrolled. Varsity sport, at this time, needs to follow viaSport’s Return to Sport Guidelines (i.e. maintain three metres physical distance and travel is limited the athlete’s respective post-secondary institution).

December 18, 2020
Update #21

As a follow-up to from our last update (#20) we have updated our Return to Sport plan to include the latest directive requirements including the new social distancing requirement of 3 metres.

The viaSport website is also updated along with their FAQs page.

The new provincial wide restrictions announced in the written Order from the Provincial Health Officer can be accessed here. This order is in place till Jan. 8.

The intent of this Order is to reduce risk provincially and aid in managing contact tracing. Within the Sport sector measures have been put in place to help meet this intention. These measures include:

Reduce the size of gatherings, by limiting number of participants including no spectators
Participants need to be from one club or community when participating in activities
All indoor and outdoor sports for people 19 years of age and older are suspended
Travel restrictions continue to be in place limiting participants to stay within their own community
High performance athletes that have been identified to a targeted athlete list with Canadian Sport Institute Pacific are exempt from the travel restrictions and may travel within B.C. for the purpose of training.

New 2.5 Sector Guidelines
A new 2.5 set of Sector Guidelines is planned to be released from viaSport in the new year based on the COVID landscape and results from these current restrictions. Once we receive these new Sector Guidelines, we will apply them to our Basketball Return to Sport Guidelines.

December 3, 2020
Update #20

This update reflects the December 2 directive from THE PROVINCIAL HEALTH OFFICER concerning GATHERINGS AND EVENTS within the SPORT SECTOR

Youth indoor and outdoor team sports
All organized indoor and outdoor sports for people under 19 years of age must follow viaSport's Return to Sport Phase 2 guidance and Basketball BC Return to Sport Phase 2 guidance with respect to maintaining physical distance for participants. This means games, tournaments, competitions and all competitive drills and activities where social distancing (see increase below) is not always maintained are temporarily suspended.

Physical Distancing has been increased to be a minimum of 3 metres (10 feet)
Focus of training activities should be individual based and skill focused
Individual drills and modified training activities can continue
Sports organizations, facility management and clubs may implement additional guidelines to ensure the health and safety of participants

Adult indoor and outdoor team sports
All indoor and outdoor sports for people 19 years of age and older are suspended.

Travel Restrictions
Travel restrictions continue to be in place limiting participants to stay within their own community. The intention is to minimize social interactions and maintain a small bubble of contacts. This helps in minimizing risk and contact tracing if a COVID-19 case or outbreak occurs.

Carpooling
The PHO directive continues to emphasize that carpooling of athletes is not permitted to attend any activities.

Masks
This ministerial order continues to mandate that masks are required to be worn by all British Columbians, 12 years and older, in many indoor public settings. These include all common areas of sport and fitness centres when not engaged in physical activity.

All participants should arrive wearing masks and do not remove them till they begin on court activity. At the conclusion of activity, players should then put on their mask prior to exiting the gym. It is also recommended that coaches wear masks while in the gym (prior, during and post activity)

New 2.5 Sector Guidelines
A new 2.5 set of Sector Guidelines is planned to be released from viaSport in the next few weeks based on the COVID landscape and results from these current restrictions. Once we receive these new Sector Guidelines, we will apply them to our Basketball Return to Sport Guidelines.

November 30, 2020

Update #19

This past week, we have continued to clarify how the new provincial Order will impact basketball, through conversations with viaSport, provincial clubs and organizations and other PSO’s. Our previous update (#18) outlines the key points of this PHO order. The intention of the order remains to minimize the number of people we interact with and reduce travel while still allowing for a modified approach to safely playing sports. We continue to seek clarification on the travel restrictions and to that point we suggest you err on the side of caution.

Many have inquired about clarification regarding mask wearing, and how it applies to basketball programming.

This ministerial order on masks ensures a coordinated response to COVID-19. Masks are now required to be worn by all British Columbians, 12 years and older, in many indoor public settings. These include all common areas of sport and fitness centres when not engaged in physical activity.

Our recommendation is that all participants arrive wearing masks and do not remove them till they begin on court activity. At the conclusion of activity players should then put on their masks prior to exiting the gym.

We also recommend that coaches wear masks while in the gym (prior, during and post activity).

November 23, 2020

Update #18

The Provincial Health Officer (PHO) has implemented province-wide restrictions, in effect until December 7, 2020.

The increase in COVID-19 in B.C. is very concerning and we must all do our part to flatten the curve. The verbal PHO Order provides new restrictions on what we can do as individuals and what the role sport can play in keeping ourselves and our communities safe.

The PHO Order recognizes that now more than ever sport provides important physical and mental health benefits to our communities, and as such sport can continue; however, within some new parameters:

Games, competitions, training and practice, such as those outlined in the viaSport Phase 3 Guidelines and Basketball BC Return to Sport Plan can continue without spectators and restricted to your local community. There is no common definition of “local” so until the written Order and public health guidance are released viaSport recommends that you err on the side of caution and stay close to home for now with little travel to and from training facilities. Also the PHO directive states - No carpooling of athletes is permitted to attend any activities whether games, training or practice.
Masks are required in all indoor public settings. We recommend that you err on the side of caution and wear a mask in all indoor public settings, including lockers, change rooms, etc.
High performance athletes already training in B.C. and identified by CSI-Pacific are excluded from the sport-related restrictions.

November 16, 2020

Update #17

With the new restrictions for the Vancouver Coastal Health and Fraser Health regions, we are all working hard to understand and share what they mean for sport. We thank you for your patience, flexibility as we all work to flatten the curve together.

As the official Order of the Provincial Health Officer has been released, we have been able to gain further clarity on key pieces of information for basketball:

Indoor sports must maintain physical distance
No spectators at indoor sport activities
Travel into, from or between VCH and FHA regions is not allowed for any sport activities
Sport organizations are NOT required to suspend operations or send a revised plan to their Medical Health Officer.

The full details around what this new order means for sport can be found on the viaSport information page which is constantly being updated as new details arise.

We acknowledge how difficult this change is and applaud the efforts of organizers, parents, participants, coaches, and volunteers who are working diligently to keep our sport and our communities safe.

The following Q and A has been generated from both viaSport and Basketball BC’s frequently asked questions.

How do these latest restrictions impact basketball?

All competitions and games are suspended in the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions for two weeks.
Only individual activities are permitted if strict physical distance measures can be maintained. No team or small group training.
Ball Sharing is allowed as long as strict cleaning of equipment and participant sanitizing measures are maintained.
Travel for sports into or out of the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions is suspended for two weeks.

Who do the restrictions apply to?
The restrictions apply to all individuals and sport organizations in the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions.

How long are the restrictions in place?
The order is in effect from November 7, 2020 at 10:00 pm to November 23, 2020 at 12:00 pm.

Why are these restrictions in place?
There are an increasing number of cases occurring in the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions. These targeted actions have been put in place in order to ensure that we flatten the curve and essential services can remain open. The restrictions in place are based on data of where Health regions has seen transmission of the virus

What activities are allowed while this order is in place?
Activities in the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions that are allowed to continue include:

Outdoor sports activities
Indoor sport activities that can maintain physical distancing
All activities must remain within the boundaries of their regional health authority
Sports and physical activities occurring in the school environment

What are the travel restrictions while this Order is in place?
No person may travel to, from or between the regions of the Fraser Health Authority and the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority for any sport related activity, including practice, training, games or Tournaments. However, a high-performance athlete is permitted to travel to, from and between the Fraser and Vancouver Coastal health regions for the purpose of participating in a designated provincial or national training program.

How is a high-performance athlete defined?
High performance athletes are individuals that have been identified to a targeted athlete list with Canadian Sport Institute Pacific by Basketball BC and Canada Basketball.

Can coaches and officials travel from Vancouver Coastal Health Region to Fraser Health Region or vice versa?
Coaches and officials can commute between the Fraser and Vancouver Coastal Health Regions for their work/sport activities, whether it is a volunteer or paid position.

How is this different from Phase 2 for sport?
Phase 2 of the viaSport guidelines did not differentiate between indoor and outdoor activities. Under the order, indoor contact sports need to revert to physically distanced training as outlined in Phase 2 of our Return to Sport plan.

Travel restrictions are also different. Individuals or teams are not permitted to travel between Regional Health boundaries.

What restrictions are in place for spectators?
In the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions, spectators are not permitted for indoor sport activities, unless necessary to provide care to a participant.

Who needs to have their safety plans reviewed by a Medical Health Officer?
All sport organizations should review and update their safety plans. However, sport organizations are not required to submit their plan to a Medical Health Officer for approval. As long as a sport organization has a safety plan in place that complies with the new restrictions they may remain open.

Indoor, group fitness activities (such as spin classes, yoga, group fitness, dance) that operate in the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions can only resume activities once guidelines for group fitness activities have been approved by the provincial health officer and the business has updated their COVID-19 safety plan and received approval from their local Medical Health Officer.

How does this impact sport outside the Lower Mainland?
The viaSport and Basketball BC Return to Sport guidelines for phase 3 remain in effect for those outside of the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions. Individuals or sport teams may not travel to the Vancouver Coastal or Fraser Health regions for the purpose of sport while the restrictions are in place.

Are there enforcement mechanisms in place?
Orders can be enforced by police or other compliance and enforcement officials. People who do not follow the order could be fined.

What happens after November 23?
The office of the Provincial Health Officer (PHO) will continue to review the data and rates of transmission in order to make an informed decision on whether it is appropriate to lift, modify or extend the restrictions.

We continue to receive inquiries regarding how many cohorts in which an individual player should take part.
As mentioned in previous updates, Individuals should limit the number of sport cohorts to which they belong to reduce the number of people with whom they are interacting. This includes individuals who are participating in multiple competitive sports beyond basketball, but also multiple basketball cohorts.

There remains no formal guidance that states a maximum of one cohort per person, but we continue to urge individuals, families, and organizations to limit the groups with which they interact so that they can keep their teammates, coaches, and communities safe. viaSport and Basketball BC have always encouraged parents and participants to be thoughtful about how many contacts to which they are exposing themselves. Limiting your cohort participation also helps in contact tracing if a positive COVID-19 case does occur.

November 10, 2020

Update #16 – EQUIPMENT SHARING

Are 2 and 3 person passing drills allowed within these new restrictions within the Fraser Health and Coastal regions? If so, what cleaning protocols should be in place regarding ball/player sanitizing?
Yes, based on the latest viaSport recommendations, 2 or 3 person passing drills are allowed but physical distancing must be maintained.

Minimum standards recommend that players wash/sanitize hands before and immediately after drills involving ball sharing and partner involvement. In addition, balls or any shared equipment are to be cleaned before and after use in the shared drills. Generally, the greater frequency of cleaning the better.

November 9, 2020

Update #15

A Provincial Health Officer Order was put in place for all individuals, places of work and businesses across the Lower Mainland. This includes all communities within the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions, with the exception of Hope, the Central Coast, Bella Coola Valley, the Sunshine Coast, Powell River and Howe Sound.

This Order is in effect for two weeks, from November 7 at 10 p.m. until Monday, November 23, 2020 at 12 p.m. and focuses on four areas: social gatherings, travel, group physical activities, and workplace safety.

Indoor competitions and games for sports that cannot maintain physical distance are suspended in the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions for two weeks.
Indoor sports in the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions that cannot maintain physical distance in games are able to conduct individual exercise activities and/or practices if physical distance measures can be maintained.
Travel for sports into or out of the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions is suspended for two weeks.

How do these latest restrictions impact basketball?

All competitions and games are suspended in the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions for two weeks.
Only individual activities are permitted if strict physical distance measures can be maintained. No team or small group training.
Travel for sports into or out of the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions is suspended for two weeks.
All training sessions are to be regional with no inter regional participants attending.

What phase of training will we be in?
At this point, the directive states that we will return to Phase 2 basketball program modifications in the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions. Phase 2 only allows for individual training. This phase stresses the importance of maintaining physical distancing at all times which includes no sharing of equipment.

All other Health regions can continue with the Phase 3 modifications. Details about Phase 2 and Phase 3 basketball program modifications are in the Basketball BC Return to Sport Plan.

November 2, 2020

There is no update this week.

October 26, 2020

There is no update this week.

October 19, 2020

Update #14 – Phase 3

As we continue to navigate programming within the COVID environment it is important that as a sport community we are in compliance with the viaSport Sector Guidelines as outlined in the Basketball BC Return to Sport Plan. As teams, clubs, and organizations begin to introduce competition into their programming they need to continue to be aware and abide by these guidelines.

How many cohorts should a player participate in?
In response to questions around limiting the amount of cohorts people are participating in, viaSport is clear that this guidance hasn’t changed and both viaSport and Basketball BC have always encouraged parents and participants to be thoughtful about how many contacts they are exposing themselves to.

There remains no formal guidance that states a maximum of one cohort per person, but we continue to urge individuals, families and organizations to limit the groups they interact with so that we can keep our teammates, coaches and communities safer.

Are spectators allowed within training facilities?
It is strongly recommended that no non-essential personal be in attendance within the gym or training facility. Limiting the number of people involved within the facility is very important with regards to Risk Mitigation and Contact Tracing. Currently our High-Performance programming does not allow any spectators to attend. This is also a requirement stated in our Facility agreement with the Langley Events Centre (LEC).

October 12, 2020

There is no update this week.

October 2, 2020

Update #13 – Phase 3

As we continue to navigate programming within the COVID environment it is important that as a sport community we are in compliance with the viaSport Sector Guidelines as outlined in the Basketball BC Return to Sport Plan. As teams, clubs, and organizations begin to introduce competition into their programming they need to continue to be aware and abide by these guidelines. Lately we have received several emails, texts, and calls concerning Phase 3 and programming. The following Q and A has been generated based on these inquiries.

Are programs still required to be regionally based?
Yes, participants in any programs whether team, training sessions, or camps need to be comprised of players within a local region or area. Regions are areas that consist of communities that are in close proximity to one another and minimize travel. At this point, distance travelling to attend programs within the province is not allowed.

viaSport Sector Guidelines state that only the Provincial Sport Organization (PSO) and National Sport Organization (NSO) can have High Performance Camps and Training Programs involving players from various regions. Basketball BC and Canada Basketball are the PSO and NSO for basketball.

What are the guidelines for forming a competition cohort?
A Competition Cohort needs to be within a region. Your overall cohort of competition cannot be over 50 total participants – that does not include coaches and officials. Depending on your numbers, a Competition Cohort may be three, four or five teams. These teams must play within their cohort – they cannot play different teams.

What if I want to join a new cohort or change an existing cohort?
When changing a cohort, you must have a non-competition period of a minimum of 14 days before establishing or joining a new cohort.

Can facilities apply stricter/ increased restrictions?
Yes, facilities have the right to apply further restrictions with regards to Return to Sport plans. There are many facilities that have not adopted all of the loosening of restrictions that are listed in Phase 3.

For example, some facilities mandate adherence to social distancing at all times, and therefore are not allowing competition. Another example is that a facility may insist on face masks to be worn at all times. Facility users need to comply with these restrictions. It is strongly recommended that all user groups review their facility user contract to make sure they are complying with the facility’s requirements.

Below is a series of questions that were presented to viaSport for clarification regarding Cohorts and Coaching

If a cohort of 4 teams of 12 play in a round robin tournament with play within themselves on a weekend i.e. Friday, Sat. Sun., then isolate from competition for 2 weeks can they play within a new cohort of 4 teams in the same scheduled format (i.e. Fri, Sat. Sun) 2 weeks later?

Unfortunately, this doesn't work - It would be only 12 days rather than 14 as their last game in the first cohort would be on a Sunday and their first game in their next cohort would be on a Friday. It needs to be the full 14 days before you can start the next cohort. - viaSport

Can a coach – coach in more than one cohort? Three different scenarios

Coach A coaches his daughter on a U14 team and his son on a U12 team
Coach B coaches two teams at the same level but in two different cohorts
Coach C coaches at a club and coaches several different teams at various levels

Coaches can be in multiple cohorts if they are able to maintain physical distance within their cohort (or wear a mask in the moments they cannot maintain distance). If this is not possible, they need to be in one cohort only – viaSport

With the rise of COVID 19 cases within the province is there any indication that there will be a tightening of restrictions within the Sport Sector?

Provincial Health Office (PHO) has always said that we might need to change our guidelines as trends change in BC. So, there is always a chance this might happen. However, we haven't heard of any indication this is going to happen in the near future. - viaSport

As we continue to move into this Progressively Loosen Stage it is essential that all groups and organizations continue to follow the guidelines stated in the RTS plan to best ensure a safe training environment and to help our sport return to play.

September 28, 2020

Update #12 – Phase 3

What are the key considerations with regards to moving from phase 2 activities to phase 3?
Risk management is still the key to determining whether or not your club, team or organization is ready to include new activities. All guidance pertaining to personal hygiene, cleaning protocols, symptom screening and other risk mitigation practices still apply in Phase 3. It is also still imperative that sport organizations consult and collaborate with their municipal and facility partners before resuming and adding activities. Municipalities and facility operators will have their own policies and processes that also need to be adhered to.

Where can I find the current Sport Sector Guidelines?
The latest viaSport guidelines including any revisions can be found at the HERE. The new Phase 3 section can be found on page 21. Also viaSport FAQs are an excellent resource for program planning regarding contact-tracing, cohorts and the Field of Play.

September 21, 2020

There is no update this week.

September 14, 2020

There is no update this week.

September 8, 2020

Update #11– Phase 3

Are School Sports occurring this fall?
BC School Sports’ (BCSS) guidelines may affect many of you. BCSS is moving to Stage 2, effective September 10. Their guidelines are consistent with the Ministry of Education’s Restart Education plan and in this stage, school sport activities are permitted but limited to students in the same educational learning group/cohort. Their revised guidelines are posted here.

Why are some programs still abiding by phase 2 restrictions (i.e. social distancing, limited sharing of equipment etc.) and others following the phase 3 oosening of restrictions guidelines?
As mentioned in the last update facilities have the right to apply further restrictions with regards to Return to Sport plans and there are many facilities that have not adopted all of the loosening of restrictions that are listed in Phase 3.

Also, some coaches, players and parents may currently wish to continue to abide by the more restrictive phase 2 guidelines focusing on skill and individual development as they may not be as ready to move forward to Phase 3 at this time.

August 31, 2020

Update #10 – Phase 3

What are the guidelines for forming a competition cohort?
A Competition Cohort needs to be within a region. Your overall cohort of competition cannot be over 50 total participants – that does not include coaches and officials. So, depending on your numbers it may be three, four or five teams. Those teams must play within their cohort – they cannot play different teams.

How are regions defined?
Cohorts need to be comprised of teams within a local region or area. Regions are areas that consist of communities that are in close proximity to one another and minimize travel. At this point, distance travelling within a cohort is not allowed. For example, Lower Mainland teams cannot be in a cohort with an Okanagan or Vancouver Island based teams.

What if I want to join a new cohort or change an existing cohort?
When changing a cohort, you must have a non-competition period of 14 days before establishing or joining a new cohort.

Can facilities apply stricter/increased restrictions?
Yes, facilities have the right to apply further restrictions with regards to Return to Sport plans. There are many facilities that have not adopted all of the loosening of restrictions that are listed in Phase 3.

For example, some facilities mandate adherence to social distancing at all times, and therefore are not allowing competition. Another example is that a facility may insist on face masks to be worn at all times. Facility users need to comply to these restrictions. It is strongly recommended that all user groups review their facility user contract to make sure they are complying to the facility’s user requirements.

August 24, 2020

Update #9 - Phase 3

The Ministry of Health and BC Centre for Disease control has approved new Sport Sector guidelines. As of today, August 24th, viaSport announced that the BC Sport Sector has moved into Phase 3 and has entered the Progressively Loosen Stage – see Appendix A – Sport Activity Chart (from viaSport Return to Sport Guidelines for BC). Along with new guidelines viaSport announced an updated Illness Policy that should be now used with regards to risk mitigation and contact tracing.

We have revised the Basketball BC Return to Sport Plan to reflect this new stage and how we can best apply these new Phase 3 guidelines to our sport.

Page 16 of our Plan outlines the Phase 3 guidelines. These guidelines include:

An Overview of Phase 3 Guidelines and Risk Management Protocols
How best to introduce Contact Activities
How to establish and use Sport Cohorts
How to Phase in Competition into training

Page 22 Outlines an updated Illness Policy

As we move into this Progressively Loosen Stage it is essential that all groups and organizations continue to follow the guidelines stated in the RTS plan to best ensure a safe training environment and to help our sport return to play.

NOTE: For updates prior to August 24, any references to the Basketball BC Return to Sport Plan will link to the original document

August 21, 2020

The next update will be delayed until Monday, August 24th.

August 14, 2020

Update #8

As mentioned in previous updates, viaSport’s proposed Phase 3 addendum to the Return to Sport Sector Guidelines is currently under review by the Ministry of Health and BC Centre for Disease Control. The approved guidelines are expected to be released shortly.

Once approved, this revised document will outline how each sport can apply the Sport Activity Chart in Phase 3. We will both post these changes to our RTS plan on our website and communicate them to our membership through email and social media.

Currently, we continue to be in the Transition Measures Stage – see Appendix A – Sport Activity Chart (from viaSport Return to Sport Guidelines for BC). This stage stresses the importance of maintaining physical distancing (2m) at all times, keeping group numbers small, training groups within your community and limited sharing of equipment.

August 7, 2020

Update #7

There has been no change in the Sport Sector Guidelines or the Basketball Return to Sport Plan. We continue to be in the Transition Measures Stage – see Appendix A – Sport Activity Chart (from viaSport Return to Sport Guidelines for BC). This stage stresses the importance of maintaining physical distancing (2m) at all times, keeping group numbers small, training groups within your community and limited sharing of equipment.

July 31, 2020

Update #6

Has there been any change in the current status of the viaSport Sector Guidelines?
There has been no change in the Sport Sector Guidelines. We continue to be in the Transition Measures Stage – see Appendix A – Sport Activity Chart (from viaSport Return to Sport Guidelines for BC). This stage stresses the importance of maintaining physical distancing (2m) at all times, keeping group numbers small, training groups within your community and limited sharing of equipment.

When will there be new and/or amended guidelines released from viaSport?
As mentioned in UPDATE #4, viaSport haa submitted new recommendations to the Ministry of Health with regards to loosening or adjusting restrictions and guidelines with regards to:

Contact
Group and Cohort Size
Competition
Travel

To date, viaSport is still waiting for approval.

Once viaSport receives approval from the Ministry of Health, the new and/or amended sector guidelines will be released to Provincial Sport Organizations to implement into their specific sport Return to Sport Plans. Indications are these new guidelines may be released by the end of August.

July 24, 2020

Update #5

What is the current status of the viaSport Sector Guidelines?
Currently, we continue to be in the Transition Measures Stage – see Appendix A – Sport Activity Chart (from viaSport Return to Sport Guidelines for BC). This stage stresses the importance of maintaining physical distancing (2m) at all times, keeping group numbers small, training groups within your community and limited sharing of equipment.

Who governs compliance to the Sector and Return to Sport Guidelines?
Compliance is being overseen by WorkSafeBC with regards to adhering to facility and operational guidelines within the sport sector as established by the Ministry of Health.

viaSport is aware of the emerging challenges in addressing Return to Sport and public health compliance issues. For the last several weeks, they have been working to establish a process to better connect with regional health authorities to develop a strategy to help the sport community better respond to compliance inquiries. They hope to provide clarity on this issue soon.

How important is compliance to the basketball and overall sport sector guidelines?
It is vital that all participants – coaches, players, and organizers adhere to the Ministry of Health’s current Sport Sector guidelines and for the basketball community to adhere to the sport specific guidelines outlined in the Basketball BC Return to Sport Plan. Failure to do so jeopardizes the entire basketball and sport communities with regards to delaying further loosening of restrictions and in providing a safe environment for all participants.

Are there guidelines for sport and recreation facilities?
Similar to the workplace environment, it is essential that recreation and sport environments are adhering to Best and Safe Practices. Please see WorksafeBC – Sport and Recreation: Protocols for Returning to Operation for information on what protocols should be in place for those who are providing indoor and outdoor facilities for recreation and sport.

July 17, 2020

Update #4

When will there be new and/or amended guidelines released from viaSport?
ViaSport has recently submitted new recommendations to the Ministry of Health with regards to loosening or adjusting restrictions and guidelines with regards to:

Contact
Group and Cohort Size
Competition
Travel

On approval, the new and/or amended sector guidelines will be released to Provincial Sport Organizations to implement into their specific sport Return to Sport Plans.

What is a training cohort?
A COVID-19 cohort, also referred to as a bubble, circle, or safe squad, is a small group whose members – are always the same people. As mentioned above, viaSport has currently submitted a recommendation to the Ministry of Health to loosen restrictions that includes cohort training.

July 10, 2020

Update #3

How does the Canada Basketball Return to Sport guidelines align with the Basketball BC Return to Sport Plan?
There is general alignment with Canada Basketball’s Return to Sport guidelines, but each province’s restart plan for sport is different and is based on each province’s situation. Provincial plans must adhere to provincial Ministry of Health and provincial Sport Sector Guidelines.

For example – we are currently aligned with Phase 2 of Canada Basketball’s guidelines while Ontario is still in Phase 1 of the same guidelines.

As a Provincial Sport Organization, our directive from the provincial government, viaSport and WorksafeBC, was to develop the restart plan for the sport of basketball that reflects and best serves our own provincial COVID-19 landscape.

What guidelines should be used when developing an organization’s, club’s, or team’s, safety and program and facility plans?
You should always use the Basketball BC Return to Sport Plan guidelines as they are the most current and adhere to our government and sport sector guidelines.

What is the current stage of the Sport Sector Guidelines?
We are currently in the Transition Measures Stage – see Appendix A – Sport Activity Chart (from viaSport Return to Sport Guidelines for BC).

Is any type of competition currently allowed within the Provincial Sport Sector?
Currently, competition is not allowed for basketball. However, some sports can have competition within their club or organization, if the 2m distancing requirement can be maintained during competition. These sports would include tennis, golf, badminton, etc.

July 6, 2020

Update - OFFICIATING

We are starting to see and hear news of basketball training starting up again. However, this does not mean that approval has been given for basketball games to be played.

Due to the provincial health guidelines for physical distancing, Basketball BC and the BCBOA will not be approving the assigning of referees until the safety and security of referees and table officials can be maximized and the Provincial Government Health and Sport authorities activate a phase of reopening that includes sports competition involving physical contact.

We will keep you informed as new information becomes available, with the continued focus on moving safely through the COVID-19 issues facing the world. Safety of our BCBOA members remains the number one priority.

In the interim, we highly recommend that referees consider implementing a personal physical conditioning plan and registering for the CBOC Webinar series, to help keep body and mind ready for return to game officiating.

Basketball BC
BC Basketball Officials Association

July 3, 2020

Update #2

Are 2 and 3 person passing drills allowed at this time? If so, what cleaning protocols should be in place regarding ball/player sanitizing?
Yes, based on the latest viaSport recommendations, 2 or 3 person passing drills are now allowed in the Basketball BC Return to Sport Plan Phase 1 but physical distancing must be maintained.

How often should sanitization/cleaning occur in a practice for players, coaches, and equipment?
Depending on the length of the practice, you should break every 20 minutes (or in between drills) to wash hands and clean equipment.

Are small sided games (1 on 1, 2 on 2, 3 on 3) allowed?
No. As social distancing of 2m is still a key component of current sport sector guidelines, basketball competition is not allowed in any form - including 1 on 1, 2 on 2, 3 on 3, etc.

When will officials be assigned games?
Officials will not be assigned to officiate games until viaSport Sector Guidelines allows for competition.

When will competition be allowed?
In order to advance to competition:

Physical distancing restrictions would need to be eased by the Ministry of Health. This easing of restrictions would allow for body contact.
Adjusted Sector Guidelines would also need to include hygiene and facility requirements that would ensure a safe integration of officials, players and coaches.

June 26, 2020

Starting today, Basketball BC will be communicating weekly Return to Sport updates through email and social media. The updates will also be posted on on this webpage.

The focus will be to inform and/or update on the status of our Return to Sport, noting any changes that may have occurred due to changes in the Sector Guidelines. It will also provide a forum to answer and clarify any questions or concerns that coaches and organizations may have with regards to their programming.

Update #1

How does the announced plans for the province to move into the third phase of its restart plan effect the Return to Sport Sector Guidelines and implications for basketball?
This new phase allows for non-essential travel within the province but still stresses the importance of maintaining social distancing of 2 metres and to continue to stay within your own community of contacts. Adhering to training within your own community of participants is still crucial with regards to contact tracing and exposure. At this point there is no change in the viaSport Sector Guidelines.

As government restrictions ease or change, how will it affect the Return to Sport for basketball and how will it be communicated?
When any new directives are announced from the provincial government, viaSport will make the needed amendments and edits to the Sport Sector Guidelines and will inform the Provincial Sport Organizations. Basketball BC will then make the appropriate adjustments and changes to our Return to Sport plan and will post those changes on our website and announce /communicate them through emails and social media.

How do you maintain Social Distancing with the two player per hoop scenario?
Our recommendation of two per hoop is still based on being able to maintain physical distancing and not sharing equipment (ball). The players would still individually use the hoop and retrieve their own ball – players would alternate use of the hoop – so at any given time only one player would be using the hoop.

How does gym size effect my programming?
Each club, organization, and individual, when planning their program needs to base their plan on their own situation with regards to the size of the gym or facility they are using. For example many smaller elementary size gyms would only allow 1 player per hoop in order to maintain social distancing and perhaps not even use the side hoops, while a large high school gym, two per hoop as described above would be able to maintain the proper distance while ensuring no equipment sharing.

Why do Return to Sport plans vary between Sports and Provinces?
Each Provincial Sport Organization (PSO) develops a Return to Sport plan that best adheres to the Sector Guidelines. Each sport’s guidelines reflect the requirements of the sport and its ability to align with those guidelines.

There are certainly many similarities between each sport’s plan - e.g. maintaining social distancing, limiting number of participants etc. But also, there are differences based on each sport’s requirements of play. Within provinces, specific sport plans will also vary as the plans have to align and adhere to each province’s COVID-19 health guidelines.

June 19, 2020

Basketball BC Return to Sport Plan

On Thursday, June 18th, the Basketball BC Board of Directors approved the Basketball Return to Sport Plan which details the first phase of resuming organized basketball in British Columbia.

The Basketball BC Return to Sport Plan details sport-specific guidelines and adheres with the Ministry approved ViaSport Sector Guidelines and is aligned with the recently released Canada Basketball’s Return to Sport Guidelines.

Under BC’s Restart Plan, sport organizations can consider reopening, but before doing so they must have a detailed plan that follows sport-specific guidelines. As the provincial sport organization for basketball, Basketball BC was charged with developing a basketball-specific Return to Sport Plan focusing on a careful and gradual restarting process. This document outlines the considerations and guidelines for the safe resumption of basketball in B.C.

Our main priority is the safety of our participants including athletes, coaches, and organizers in the basketball community.

The Plan is based on a phased approach of restarting activities and outlines the guidelines, recommendations and directives that need to be part of organization’s considerations when programming any basketball activities.

The goal of the plan is to ensure a safe return to basketball by carefully and gradually returning to basketball in phases that align with public health guidelines. Movement between phases will be determined by public health directives. Any movement between phases will be decided through collaboration with ViaSport and the Provincial Health Office with basketball specific adjustments announced by Basketball BC. This adherence is essential as the opening of activities will be gradual and planned based on current health conditions.

This first phase allows for individual skill training and drills which permit physical distancing. Competitive basketball does not permit physical distancing and should not be played at this time.

These guidelines, recommendations and considerations will be adapted and amended as restrictions are eased and we move into future phases.

June 5, 2020

Below is key information about Basketball BC’s Return to Sport program:

Basketball BC is in the process of writing our Return to Sport and are following the required steps to align it with the recently published viaSport Return to Sport Guidelines. (Link to viaSport guidelines can be found in our Key Points of RTS Plan document). Our Return to Sport will align with ViaSport, adhere to the Provincial Health Officer’s Orders and Recommendations, and give advice to any basketball groups looking for assistance in writing their own materials that will be necessary. Some templates will be included for reference. Basketball BC’s Return to Sport will be communicated via this space and updated, as necessary. It is a guide to returning to the sport we all love.

We expect our Return to Sport to be published in the near future, but we share the following KEY POINTS with you now.

KEY POINTS OF RTS PLAN

May 16, 2020

Basketball BC’s return to sport guidelines are being drafted to align with viaSport and the provincial health officer. They should be completed shortly and will be in line with provincial orders and recommendations.

WHEN FINAL APPROVALS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED THEY WILL BE POSTED HERE AND MADE AVAILABLE TO OUR MEMBERS AND THE BASKETBALL COMMUNITY

View viaSport letter outlining the processes and providing more detailed information including FAQ’s

For any further Basketball BC information please contact either:

Shaun Mcguinness or Lawrie Johns