Following yesterday's communication from Hockey NSW regarding the current COVID-19 situation, we would like to provide you all with answers to some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) that we are receiving.
If you have an enquiry that isn't covered in the information below, please click here to submit it to our team. We will endeavour to respond to all enquiries within a reasonable time-frame.
What impact does COVID-19 have on our insurance coverage?
Players, officials, and volunteers registered for the 2020 season will be covered by the National Hockey Insurance Program. The program will provide all registered participants with a minimum level of insurance protection.
Honan are the national insurance broker and details of the insurance cover, the claims portal and certificates of currency can be found on their hockey-specific website - https://hockey.honansport.com.au/
It is very important to note that Personal Accident insurance provides coverage for injuries sustained whilst participating in an activity under the following circumstances;
- An official match or training sessions
- Traveling to and from an official club activity
- Participation in an official club function
- Tours or representative matches
Personal Accident insurance does not cover illness, such as Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Club Management and Professional Liability Insurance is provided to all incorporated hockey clubs, affiliations and associations as part of the national insurance scheme and covers for honest mistakes made by directors and officers involved in the management of the affairs for the organisation. However, this coverage would not extend to decisions made which are illegal or in breach of a Government Order.
Will registration fees be refunded?
Hockey Australia and Hockey NSW have not made a decision on refunds at this point in time.
Given the situation with COVID-19 continues to evolve and change rapidly, a decision on registration fees will be made once a full understanding of the impact of COVID-19 is available.
It is important to note that the season has been delayed NOT cancelled.
The patience and understanding of members in the interim as we deal with these unprecedented events is appreciated.
Will the season be extended due to the delayed start?
This will be a decision for each individual club, association and competition body and will depend on individual circumstances. It may be beneficial for Clubs and Associations to start investigating what options are available particularly if you are accessing a local government managed facility.
Can we keep running hockey if Hockey NSW advises not to?
Whilst each club, association and competition body are responsible for making its own decisions, Hockey NSW strongly recommends all hockey activities are suspended until 2 May 2020.
The Hockey NSW advice has been the result of considerable consultation with relevant expert bodies and places the health and wellbeing of our hockey community and the broader public as the number one priority. Hockey NSW is also very conscious that our sport is a genuine family sport involving multiple generations of players, volunteers and supporters that includes a number of at-risk populations including the elderly.
Hockey NSW encourages any clubs, associations or competition bodies with questions or concerns to contact us on 9764 1911 or hockey@hockeynsw.com.au
How can we minimise the potential spread COVID-19 in our Club / Association?
Practising good hygiene and keeping your distance from others when you are sick is the best defence against most viruses. You should:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, before and after eating, and after going to the toilet.
- Cover your cough and sneeze, dispose of tissues, and use alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
- If unwell, avoid contact with others (stay more than 1.5 metres from people).
- Exercise personal responsibility for social distancing measures
- If you are in the high-risk category or showing signs of illness, follow medical advice and do not participate.
Those deemed most at risk of infection are:
- People with compromised immune systems
- Elderly people
- People with diagnosed chronic medical conditions
- People in group residential settings
- Those who have recently travelled overseas
- Those who have been in contact with someone who is known to have the COVID-19 virus
What if someone has symptoms of COVID-19?
If you become unwell and think you may have symptoms of coronavirus, seek medical attention. Call ahead of time to book an appointment.
Tell your doctor about your symptoms, travel history and any recent close contact with someone who has coronavirus and advise your coach or Club as soon as possible.
How do we stay up to date with changes?
Hockey NSW will continue to provide updates as government advice and circumstances change. These updates will be communicated on our website, social media pages and via email.
Further Information can also be sourced from expert organisations at the links on this page below.
Further Information
National Coronavirus Health Information Hotline: 1800 020 080
NSW Department of Health Website: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/
Australian Government Department of Health: https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novelcoronavirus2019-ncov-health-alert
Australian Institute of Sport: https://ais.gov.au/health-wellbeing/covid-19