Post
by ben.graff » Wed Sep 08, 2021 11:32 am
"What Covid measures were imposed if any?" "Over how many boards are each match."
Hi John. We play over four boards in our higher divisions and three in the lower ones.
Our Covid protocols are set out below. These followed extensive consultation with our member clubs. There are no right answers, but our approach has been to allow the home club to determine the rules for the evening. (Which in many instances means reflecting the policies of the particular venue they happen to play in.) We have set some broad parameters as to what is and is not acceptable and are publishing clubs individual policies on our website. We've also made some of our regular rules more flexible around postponements and the like, given the uncertainty of thee times.
We just want to ensure everyone feels as comfortable as possible this season, with the hope that many of these provisions will no longer be necessary by 22/23.
LDCL Covid Protocols 21/22
Determining and Publishing Covid Protocols
All clubs and venues can determine their own Covid playing protocols for the 21/22 season. We recognise that different clubs have different
circumstances, hence there will not be a "one size fits all," LDCL protocol.
While it is better for clubs to undertake their own risk assessments, as a minimum local protocols must be consistent with the prevailing national rules.
Clubs Covid protocols must be shared with the LDCL and all will be published on the LDCL website.
Proper notice must be given for any changes to club Covid protocols and all updates will also be published.
Acceptable scope of Covid Protocols
It is acceptable for club Covid protocols to set out a policy on mask/ visor wearing, temperature checks and other relevant social distancing provisions.
It is not acceptable for players to be barred from competing on account of their vaccination status. (For example juniors who have not had an opportunity to be vaccinated.)
The protocols of the home club/ venue determine the base rules for the evening. However, should the home club not be asking for masks (for example) there is nothing to prevent the visitors from choosing to wear one.
Variations to the LDCL Rules for 21/22
The ten-day notice period to rearrange matches will be suspended in any circumstances where a rearrangement is needed due to Covid. However,
where a postponement is needed at shorter notice (or might be needed) we fully expect the relevant captain to keep his or her opposite number
properly informed of the situation and to make every effort to give as much notice as possible. In our view proper communication might mean
shorter notice of a postponement, but other than in the most exceptional circumstances (e.g. players becoming ill or being pinged on the day of
the match) on the day postponements should be very much the exception rather than the norm.
Equally, clubs can agree to play one board short if Covid has made it impossible to raise a full team, provided this has been agreed between the
clubs in advance. In such circumstances, the unplayed board will be scored 0.5-0.5 and must be the lowest board.
If anyone is excluded from a venue on the night having failed a temperature check, their game will be void and scored 0.5 - 0.5. If this impacts
more than one game, the match will be cancelled and will need to be rearranged.
The LDCL Committee will review and rule on any other issues that arise as a result of Covid during the coming season. However, it is our
expectation that common courtesy and mutual respect between our members should result in the majority of issues being resolved amicably and
sensibly without the need for Committee involvement.
Ben Graff
Author of 'Checkmate! Great Champions And Epic Matches From A Timeless Game' 'The Greenbecker Gambit' and 'Find Another Place'