Following the official statement released on the BC Government website on Monday and the updated PHO, we are excited that so much more Rugby will now be possible this summer.

With the publication of the updated PHO, BC Rugby has updated its Return to Rugby Plan, which also adopts World Rugby’s Competition Ready guidelines that outlines a training framework to prepare players for the resumption of contact Rugby matches.

View the updated Return to Rugby Plan

For BC clubs that contest Fall-Spring seasons, we are on schedule to return to contact Rugby this Fall with clubs able to commence training as early as August 1st, 2021 following World Rugby’s Competition guidelines.

For Northern BC and Interior clubs that contest summer seasons, we anticipate a return to contact Rugby this July.

However, to avoid chopping and changing, we remain in Phase 3 of the Return to Rugby Plan (known as Rugby Restarted) and anticipate moving into Phase 4 (Returning to Contact) from July 1st, 2021 at the earliest.

The updated PHO and Return to Rugby Plan does introduce some changes to Phase 3, namely:

The use of tackle shields and bags is now permitted.

Until further notice, each sporting venue is limited to a maximum of 50 spectators (this is in addition to a maximum of 50 participants). Physical distancing between households must be facilitated and attendance of all spectators recorded (including two points of contact – e.g. email address and cell number).

People can now enjoy Rugby at more than one venue: for example, a Masters player can play with the Masters club and also play or coach at another club.

All Clubs must have Phase 3 COVID Safety Plans sanctioned by BC Rugby before they can deliver the following: