Post Lockdown – Update 4

Hello All,

We are slowing coming back to some semblance of normality now and it is good to see the courts being used more often.

You are obviously getting used to the new Booking System. This has a number of benefits, especially during this COVID era.

1. It helps to manage the number of people at the courts
2. It also means that we have an effective “Track & Trace” system in place should anyone contract COVID-19 after playing.  This is now a requirement.

So, to business.

Firstly, if you don’t feel well, please don’t play.
 
We now need to highlight to you that undertaking any activity, including tennis, has the potential for increased risk of transmission of COVID-19, and you should read the Government’s guidance on staying safe outside your home.

[NEW] – before you leave to play you now need to undergo a self-assessment symptom check for COVID-19 by using the information on the NHS website  

If  you are OK,  before you go to the Courts please also do:

1. Make sure that you have paid your subscription –
2. Read and follow the updated  rules/guidance of the Government/LTA
3. Book a court using the online booking system – or contact Richard Hopp for coaching
4. ONLY go to/use the courts if you have booked.
5. Buy , bring and use a hand sanitiser.
6. Wash your hands before leaving home and afterwards

When at the Courts:

1. Pay attention to hygiene: 
   1. Use hand sanitiser before playing and afterwards – and during intervals if you have to touch communal surfaces.
   2. [UPDATED] Players do not now need to use their own clearly marked tennis balls – however, players can choose to use this approach if they wish
      1. If you choose to use shared balls then extra care must be taken to ensure you do not touch your face during play, and you should clean your hands before play and immediately after finishing (use alcohol gel if required)
      2. Players should still avoid using their hands to pick up tennis balls from other courts where possible – use your racquet/foot to return them as those players may have decided to continue to use their own marked tennis balls
      3. Return balls coming from a neighbouring court without touching them with your hands.
2. Maintain social distancing and be considerate of others at all times, this includes:
   1. Parking and approaching/leaving the courts
   2. Entering or exiting the courts
   3. Playing when there are other members on the courts who are not from your household.
3. [UPDATED] Singles and doubles can be played with people from different households, and recreational competitions (including club nights), can now take place as long social distancing guidelines are adhered to and venues follow COVID-19 Secure guidelines.
4. [NEW] Supporters, parents, and other spectators should remain socially distanced whilst attending events. Spectator groups must be restricted to discrete six person gathering limits and spread out, in line with wider government guidance.
5. Junior members aged 12 and under must still be accompanied by an adult.
6. Be careful. Try to avoid injuries as a result of over-enthusiasm!

Afterward

1. If, after  you have played, you should develop symptoms of COVID-19 you should follow the Government’s ‘test and trace’ guidelines,
2. If you are the last to leave the courts, please lock the gate using the padlock.
3. Please also give us some feed back by emailing admin@graffhamtennis.co.uk

Important Note – Loos and Pavilion

Please note that, even thought the Government has relaxed the rules,  the Pavilion (and therefore the loos) remains closed as does the Playground.  Please do not use, or let your children use, either.

And Finally

• We need everyone to be sensible about it so that we can remain open.
• Please read and respect the guidelines.
• Remain safe, fit and healthy!

Beetle