DONEGAL-based Athletics Ireland Regional Development Officer Dermot McGranaghan has urged clubs to make the most of the new phase of Ireland’s reopening.
From today, groups of up to 15 people can return to outdoor sporting activity.
Athletics clubs had been allowed to reopen their outdoor facilities last month during phase one of the reopening, with activity limited to groups of four.
However, today sees a significant increase in the permitted numbers, while travel restrictions within a person’s own country have been lifted.
“This is very welcome news for clubs, coaches and athletes alike and will allow everyone to begin to return to some semblance of normality,” McGranaghan told Donegal Daily/Donegal Sport Hub.
“Phase one has come and gone, and to date only around forty percent of athletics clubs are up and going again.
“I call on all clubs to get back on track immediately, of course all the tie adhering to the strict regulations and guidelines that are in place.
“All coaches and athletes between 13–70 are now free to return to all outdoor facilities for training purposes in groups of up to 15 people.
Daniella Jansen trains at Finn Valley AC, watched by coach Dermot McGranaghan
“It is absolutely essential that all involved are fully familiar with their individual and group responsibilities before embarking on any activities.”
Athletics Ireland as published detailed documents in which they separately advise clubs, athletes and coaches of their obligations, which can be accessed here:
The governing body is also providing assistance to individuals and clubs with a free online contact tracing club reservation system, here: https://www.athleticsireland.ie/news/free-online-contact-tracing-club-reservation-system
McGranaghan was appointed as the North West’s RDO in late 2018 and the Finn Valley AC man was a coach with the Ireland team at last summer’s European Games in Minsk.
He said: “Athletics Ireland is also working extremely hard on competition prospects in late August/September. This will be guided by the Government and Sport Ireland recommendations and we need to have our young athletes ready for competition.
“With the fact that it is now nearly three months since all organised activities ceased, I would encourage all clubs to immediately take the initiative regarding getting the ball rolling.
“The younger age groups are extremely keen to get back on track asap. I am aware that some clubs are already driving forward with numerous club meetings having taken place in recent days.
“For those clubs who have not taken that first step it is imperative that they do so quickly as the necessary guidelines are extensive and will require more than a little preparation.
“The summer is still only in its early stages and there are still areas of opportunity for things to progress further over the coming months.
“ With time on our hands this might be the ideal excuse to make that overdue change to our training practices, Let’s try to get things moving forward quickly and in a positive direction given the circumstances.”
The Castlefin man has offered his assistance to any club who wishes to get in touch to obtain any further information regarding the guidelines for reopening.
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