PA Optimist Toppers U15 squad in Saskatoon on Jan. 26, 2020. (Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

COVID-19

Volleyball suspended amid COVID-19 concerns

Mar 13, 2020 | 10:13 AM

In light of the ongoing concern resulting from the coronavirus (COVID-19), and in support of suggested recommendations from health authorities regarding avoiding large group and crowded public activities, Sask Volleyball has decided to suspend activities until further notice.

This includes the cancellation of Sask Cups for this upcoming weekend March 14-15, 2020.

“Additionally, we are cancelling sanctions for all other activity this weekend, including club tournaments, club practices, and coaching workshops,” noted in a statement. “A determination of whether other Sask Cups or Provincial Championships, or any other activity will take place will be reviewed in the upcoming days and communicated to members as soon as possible.”

Tournament fees for Sask Cups and Tournament sanctions paid to Sask Volleyball will be refunded where necessary.

The organization said it apologized for the inconvenience, however “we feel this decision is in the best interest of protecting the health and safety of our athletes, coaches, referees and the general public.”

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There was a rash of cancellations or postponements across a wide range of sports in Canada and the U.S. Thursday, and the decision by Sask Volleyball came just hours after local officials seemed to think the season would continue.

Earlier Thursday CEO Aaron Demyen told paNOW they were monitoring the situation closely and would take direction from the Saskatchewan Health Authority and the Federal Government .

The league had posted on its website, a list of precautions for coaches and players to take. Those recommendations included refraining from any unnecessary physical contact before, during or after their respective volleyball matches.

The league includes club teams from across the province including the Toppers and Smashing Bananas squads in Prince Albert.

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nigel.maxwell@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell