COVID-19 UPDATES
USA Volleyball Notices
May 13, 2020 Update - Return to Play GuidelinesUSA Volleyball (USAV) has prepared Return to Play Guidelines for region leaders, club directors, event promoters, venue operators, members and families to provide guidance as volleyball activities begin to recommence across the United States.
The following recommendations are not intended or implied to be mandates. Many of these recommendations are based upon current guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other Federal government agencies. The knowledge surrounding COVID-19 is constantly changing and circumstances are different based on geographic region. Therefore, region leaders, club directors, event promoters and venue operators should adhere to their state and local guidelines when determining their own re-opening policies and procedures.
USAV will be resuming sanctioning of activities on May 15, 2020. All USAV sanctioned activities will be required to adhere to the most stringent federal, state or local guideline for their respective areas. USAV insurance coverage will only be provided for activities that are allowed under such government directives.
Until COVID-19 is either eradicated, a vaccine is developed, or a cure is found, there is no way to completely eliminate the risk of infection and as a result USAV strongly encourages all participants to follow these recommendations as safety precautions. The information in this document is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, nor does USAV or its forty (40) Regional Volleyball Associations (Region(s)) assume any liability or responsibility for the recommendations provided herein.
Read the complete Return to Play Guidelines
May 5, 2020 Update
As referenced in our communication on April 24, a “return to play” task force was established by USA Volleyball to create a comprehensive roadmap to safely restart USAV’s sanctioning of activities when it is appropriate. The task force has been meeting diligently and gathering information from United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), medical experts, government entities, volleyball clubs and other national governing bodies to help pave our course of action. At this point, the group believes that it is premature to safely commence play and thus USA Volleyball is extending the elimination of sanctions for all USA Volleyball activities (including but not limited to events, practices, team activities, individual training sessions or anything covered by USA Volleyball insurance) through May 22, 2020.
Virtual training/coaching/instruction/meetings are permitted during this period of sanction suspension. Any virtual training/coaching/instruction/meetings involving minors are subject to requirements of MAAPP, specifically the regulations on electronic communications and one-on-one interactions. These requirements include the following:
USA Volleyball has been asked by local clubs whether such ban applies to club activities covered under the club’s own (non-USA Volleyball) insurance. In these situations, USA Volleyball strongly encourages all member clubs and coaches to adhere to USA Volleyball’s policies. However, should a club decide to voluntarily disregard those policies and assume all risks associated therewith, we recommend that the club adhere to CDC; local, state and federal guidelines and recommendations when deciding whether or not to host practices or individual training sessions. If a club does host practice or individual training sessions, those activities would be considered a non-sanctioned activity by USA Volleyball and thus NOT covered by USA Volleyball insurance.
The health and welfare of our membership, volleyball families and fellow citizens is our primary concern in all decisions we are making during these uncharted times.
USA Volleyball is monitoring the situation daily and will continue to provide updates on a regular basis.
April 24, 2020 Update
Dear USA Volleyball Membership,
As parts of our nation have commenced plans for reopening, USA Volleyball CEO Jamie Davis and Board Chair Cecile Reynaud have established a task force to create a comprehensive roadmap to safely restart USAV’s sanctioning of activities when it is appropriate. The team is comprised of the following members:
This group will be collaborating with the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, medical experts, government entities, volleyball clubs and other national governing bodies to adopt a phased reopening plan in accordance with federal, state and local guidelines and with the foremost goal of safeguarding USAV members and spectators. We will not be removing the suspension of USAV sanctioning activities until it is safe to do so.
Thank you in advance for your patience as we develop our roadmap forward.
Jamie Davis
Cecile Reynaud
April 22, 2020 Update - 3 p.m. Mountain
USA Volleyball is extending the elimination of sanctions for all USA Volleyball activities (including but not limited to events, practices, team activities, individual training sessions or anything covered by USA Volleyball insurance) through May 8, 2020.
Following several communications with the USOPC, the U.S. Center for SafeSport, and our insurance providers, USA Volleyball has received permission to sanction virtual training/coaching/instruction/meetings during this period of sanction suspension. Any virtual training/coaching/instruction/meetings involving minors are subject to requirements of MAAPP, specifically the regulations on electronic communications and one-on-one interactions. These requirements include the following:
USA Volleyball has been asked by local clubs whether such ban applies to club activities covered under the club’s own (non-USA Volleyball) insurance. In these situations, USA Volleyball strongly encourages all member clubs and coaches to adhere to USA Volleyball’s policies. However, should a club decide to voluntarily disregard those policies and assume all risks associated therewith, we recommend that the club adhere to CDC; local, state and federal guidelines and recommendations when deciding whether or not to host practices or individual training sessions. If a club does host practice or individual training sessions, those activities would be considered a non-sanctioned activity by USA Volleyball and thus NOT covered by USA Volleyball insurance.
The health and welfare of our membership, volleyball families and fellow citizens is our primary concern in all decisions we are making during these uncharted times.
USA Volleyball is monitoring the situation daily and will continue to provide updates on a regular basis.
April 22, 2020 Update - 8 a.m. Mountain
Dear USA Volleyball Members and Clubs,
First and foremost, I hope that you are staying safe and healthy as our nation and the world battles the COVID-19 pandemic.
Like you, we are eager to be back competing on the court and playing the game we love. That said, the safety of our members, spectators and staff is our top priority and thus we have been forced to make many decisions which have impacted the 2020 USA Volleyball tournament calendar. Regular real time event specific updates are available on our website.
As you are aware, a few of our qualifiers have been canceled with the majority of them being postponed. We are furthermore monitoring the feasibility of our championship events and exploring the postponement to later dates should the conditions not be safe to stage them as planned. It would be far easier for us to simply cancel all of these events, but the overwhelming feedback that we have received from you has been in favor of trying to salvage the season. You want to play and we want to provide you the competitions to do so. I am hopeful that we will be able to accomplish this common goal.
Again, safety is paramount and we are closely monitoring city, state and federal social distancing guidelines and recommendations. We are furthermore developing new processes, procedures and regulations that will be put in place to further enhance the safety of the events. Final decisions on whether to proceed will only be made once factoring in all of these factors.
Thank you for your patience as we work through this ever-changing situation.
April 17, 2020 UpdateFollowing several communications with the USOPC, the U.S. Center for SafeSport, and our insurance providers, USA Volleyball has received permission to sanction virtual training/coaching/instruction/meetings during this period of sanction suspension. We are extending this sanctioning immediately, however, any virtual training/coaching/instruction/meetings involving minors are subject to requirements of MAAPP, specifically the regulations on electronic communications and one-on-one interactions. These requirements include the following:
We are confident you will find this update to be good news in these unprecedented times.
Stay safe, stay healthy and GO USA!
March 31, 2020 Update
USA Volleyball is extending the elimination of sanctions for all USA Volleyball activities (including but not limited to events, practices, team activities, individual training sessions or anything covered by USA Volleyball insurance) through April 30, 2020. USA Volleyball is monitoring the situation daily and will continue to provide updates on a regular basis.
USA Volleyball has been asked by local clubs whether such ban applies to club activities covered under the club’s own (non-USA Volleyball) insurance. In these situations, USA Volleyball strongly encourages all member clubs and coaches to adhere to USA Volleyball’s policies. However, should a club decide to voluntarily disregard those policies and assume all risks associated therewith, we recommend that the club adhere to CDC; local, state and federal guidelines and recommendations when deciding whether or not to host practices or individual training sessions. If a club does host practice or individual training sessions, those activities would be considered a non-sanctioned activity by USA Volleyball and thus NOT covered by USA Volleyball insurance.
The health and welfare of our membership, volleyball families and fellow citizens is our primary concern in all decisions we are making during these uncharted times.
March 19, 2020 Update - 3:30 p.m. Mountain
USA Volleyball is announcing the elimination of sanctions for all USA Volleyball activities (including but not limited to events, practices, team activities, individual training sessions or anything covered by USA Volleyball insurance) through April 15, 2020. USA Volleyball is monitoring the situation daily and will continue to provide updates on a regular basis.
USA Volleyball has been asked by local clubs whether such ban applies to club activities covered under the club’s own (non-USA Volleyball) insurance. In these situations, USA Volleyball strongly encourages all member clubs and coaches to adhere to USA Volleyball’s policies. However, should a club decide to voluntarily disregard those policies and assume all risks associated therewith, we recommend that the club adhere to CDC; local, state and federal guidelines and recommendations when deciding whether or not to host practices or individual training sessions. If a club does host practice or individual training sessions, those activities would be considered a non-sanctioned activity by USA Volleyball and thus NOT covered by USA Volleyball insurance.
The health and welfare of our membership, volleyball families and fellow citizens is our primary concern in all decisions we are making during these uncharted times.
March 18, 2020 Update
USA Volleyball announced on March 13 the elimination of sanctions for all USA Volleyball activities (including but not limited to events, practices, team activities, individual training sessions or anything covered by USA Volleyball insurance) through March 31. USA Volleyball is monitoring the situation daily and will continue to provide updates on a regular basis.
USA Volleyball has been asked by local clubs whether such ban applies to club activities covered under the club’s own (non-USA Volleyball) insurance. In these situations, USA Volleyball strongly encourages all member clubs and coaches to adhere to USA Volleyball’s policies. However, should a club decide to voluntarily disregard those policies and assume all risks associated therewith, we recommend that the club adhere to CDC; local, state and federal guidelines and recommendations when deciding whether or not to host practices or individual training sessions. If a club does host practice or individual training sessions, those activities would be considered a non-sanctioned activity by USA Volleyball and thus NOT covered by USA Volleyball insurance.
The health and welfare of our membership, volleyball families and fellow citizens is our primary concern in all decisions we are making during these uncharted times.
March 13, 2020 Update
We are continuing to monitor the status of COVID-19 coronavirus as it relates to the welfare and safety of our athletes, spectators and staff. USA Volleyball is extending its recommendation that all USAV sanctioned events be postponed or cancelled through March 31st. We are monitoring the situation on a daily basis and will provide periodic updates as information becomes more apparent. Please refer to this page for the latest updated information on USA Volleyball events.
March 11, 2020 Update - 11 a.m. Mountain
The safety of our members, spectators and staff is our paramount concern.
USA Volleyball has this page dedicated to this situation where we will be posting the latest information on the outbreak, USAV event updates, recommended health precautionary measures and any event-specific protocols that will be adjusted as a result of the virus. Given the fluidity of this matter, decisions regarding each event will be determined independently as factors affecting one may not affect another and we are working with each of the local authorities and event venues to increase safety measures.
Finally, we have established a mailbox at healthinfo@usav.org where you can send any inquiries related to this issue.
USA Volleyball response on Coronavirus 2/28/20
May 13, 2020 Update - Return to Play GuidelinesUSA Volleyball (USAV) has prepared Return to Play Guidelines for region leaders, club directors, event promoters, venue operators, members and families to provide guidance as volleyball activities begin to recommence across the United States.
The following recommendations are not intended or implied to be mandates. Many of these recommendations are based upon current guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other Federal government agencies. The knowledge surrounding COVID-19 is constantly changing and circumstances are different based on geographic region. Therefore, region leaders, club directors, event promoters and venue operators should adhere to their state and local guidelines when determining their own re-opening policies and procedures.
USAV will be resuming sanctioning of activities on May 15, 2020. All USAV sanctioned activities will be required to adhere to the most stringent federal, state or local guideline for their respective areas. USAV insurance coverage will only be provided for activities that are allowed under such government directives.
Until COVID-19 is either eradicated, a vaccine is developed, or a cure is found, there is no way to completely eliminate the risk of infection and as a result USAV strongly encourages all participants to follow these recommendations as safety precautions. The information in this document is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, nor does USAV or its forty (40) Regional Volleyball Associations (Region(s)) assume any liability or responsibility for the recommendations provided herein.
Read the complete Return to Play Guidelines
May 5, 2020 Update
As referenced in our communication on April 24, a “return to play” task force was established by USA Volleyball to create a comprehensive roadmap to safely restart USAV’s sanctioning of activities when it is appropriate. The task force has been meeting diligently and gathering information from United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), medical experts, government entities, volleyball clubs and other national governing bodies to help pave our course of action. At this point, the group believes that it is premature to safely commence play and thus USA Volleyball is extending the elimination of sanctions for all USA Volleyball activities (including but not limited to events, practices, team activities, individual training sessions or anything covered by USA Volleyball insurance) through May 22, 2020.
Virtual training/coaching/instruction/meetings are permitted during this period of sanction suspension. Any virtual training/coaching/instruction/meetings involving minors are subject to requirements of MAAPP, specifically the regulations on electronic communications and one-on-one interactions. These requirements include the following:
- All virtual trainings/coaching/meetings must be “observable and interruptible,” able to be ended at any time, and have at least two applicable adults on each session, i.e., coach and assistant, coach and club director, etc.
- All parents/guardians must be provided the code or link to join the virtual session.
- All parents/guardians must sign a waiver in advance as these sessions could be viewed as individual training. A record of which clubs/coaches have been approved to conduct these sessions should be kept. USAV has created a standardized waiver form if you care to use it.
- If a minor athlete ends up emailing a video to a coach for feedback or additional coaching, the coach needs to copy the parent/guardian and/or other applicable adult on all correspondences.
USA Volleyball has been asked by local clubs whether such ban applies to club activities covered under the club’s own (non-USA Volleyball) insurance. In these situations, USA Volleyball strongly encourages all member clubs and coaches to adhere to USA Volleyball’s policies. However, should a club decide to voluntarily disregard those policies and assume all risks associated therewith, we recommend that the club adhere to CDC; local, state and federal guidelines and recommendations when deciding whether or not to host practices or individual training sessions. If a club does host practice or individual training sessions, those activities would be considered a non-sanctioned activity by USA Volleyball and thus NOT covered by USA Volleyball insurance.
The health and welfare of our membership, volleyball families and fellow citizens is our primary concern in all decisions we are making during these uncharted times.
USA Volleyball is monitoring the situation daily and will continue to provide updates on a regular basis.
April 24, 2020 Update
Dear USA Volleyball Membership,
As parts of our nation have commenced plans for reopening, USA Volleyball CEO Jamie Davis and Board Chair Cecile Reynaud have established a task force to create a comprehensive roadmap to safely restart USAV’s sanctioning of activities when it is appropriate. The team is comprised of the following members:
- Jamie Davis: USAV Chief Executive Officer
- Chris Vadala: USAV Chief of Membership Services
- Stacie Kearns: USAV Chief Financial Officer
- Rachael Stafford: USAV General Counsel
- Cecile Reynaud: USAV Board Chair, Member of USAV Coaching Education CAP cadre
- Steve Bishop: USAV Board Member, President of the Florida Region of USA Volleyball, Member of the RVA insurance committee and the USAV Beach Assembly member
- Dave Peixoto: USAV Board Member, Commissioner of the New England Region Volleyball Association, Member of the RVA Assembly
- Steve Kenyon: USAV Board Member, Member of the RVA and Officials Assemblies
- Dave Gentile: USAV Board Member, Chair of the Junior Assembly
This group will be collaborating with the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, medical experts, government entities, volleyball clubs and other national governing bodies to adopt a phased reopening plan in accordance with federal, state and local guidelines and with the foremost goal of safeguarding USAV members and spectators. We will not be removing the suspension of USAV sanctioning activities until it is safe to do so.
Thank you in advance for your patience as we develop our roadmap forward.
Jamie Davis
Cecile Reynaud
April 22, 2020 Update - 3 p.m. Mountain
USA Volleyball is extending the elimination of sanctions for all USA Volleyball activities (including but not limited to events, practices, team activities, individual training sessions or anything covered by USA Volleyball insurance) through May 8, 2020.
Following several communications with the USOPC, the U.S. Center for SafeSport, and our insurance providers, USA Volleyball has received permission to sanction virtual training/coaching/instruction/meetings during this period of sanction suspension. Any virtual training/coaching/instruction/meetings involving minors are subject to requirements of MAAPP, specifically the regulations on electronic communications and one-on-one interactions. These requirements include the following:
- All virtual trainings/coaching/meetings must be “observable and interruptible,” able to be ended at any time, and have at least two applicable adults on each session, i.e., coach and assistant, coach and club director, etc.
- All parents/guardians must be provided the code or link to join the virtual session.
- All parents/guardians must sign a waiver in advance as these sessions could be viewed as individual training. A record of which clubs/coaches have been approved to conduct these sessions should be kept. USAV has created a standardized waiver form if you care to use it.
- If a minor athlete ends up emailing a video to a coach for feedback or additional coaching, the coach needs to copy the parent/guardian and/or other applicable adult on all correspondences.
USA Volleyball has been asked by local clubs whether such ban applies to club activities covered under the club’s own (non-USA Volleyball) insurance. In these situations, USA Volleyball strongly encourages all member clubs and coaches to adhere to USA Volleyball’s policies. However, should a club decide to voluntarily disregard those policies and assume all risks associated therewith, we recommend that the club adhere to CDC; local, state and federal guidelines and recommendations when deciding whether or not to host practices or individual training sessions. If a club does host practice or individual training sessions, those activities would be considered a non-sanctioned activity by USA Volleyball and thus NOT covered by USA Volleyball insurance.
The health and welfare of our membership, volleyball families and fellow citizens is our primary concern in all decisions we are making during these uncharted times.
USA Volleyball is monitoring the situation daily and will continue to provide updates on a regular basis.
April 22, 2020 Update - 8 a.m. Mountain
Dear USA Volleyball Members and Clubs,
First and foremost, I hope that you are staying safe and healthy as our nation and the world battles the COVID-19 pandemic.
Like you, we are eager to be back competing on the court and playing the game we love. That said, the safety of our members, spectators and staff is our top priority and thus we have been forced to make many decisions which have impacted the 2020 USA Volleyball tournament calendar. Regular real time event specific updates are available on our website.
As you are aware, a few of our qualifiers have been canceled with the majority of them being postponed. We are furthermore monitoring the feasibility of our championship events and exploring the postponement to later dates should the conditions not be safe to stage them as planned. It would be far easier for us to simply cancel all of these events, but the overwhelming feedback that we have received from you has been in favor of trying to salvage the season. You want to play and we want to provide you the competitions to do so. I am hopeful that we will be able to accomplish this common goal.
Again, safety is paramount and we are closely monitoring city, state and federal social distancing guidelines and recommendations. We are furthermore developing new processes, procedures and regulations that will be put in place to further enhance the safety of the events. Final decisions on whether to proceed will only be made once factoring in all of these factors.
Thank you for your patience as we work through this ever-changing situation.
April 17, 2020 UpdateFollowing several communications with the USOPC, the U.S. Center for SafeSport, and our insurance providers, USA Volleyball has received permission to sanction virtual training/coaching/instruction/meetings during this period of sanction suspension. We are extending this sanctioning immediately, however, any virtual training/coaching/instruction/meetings involving minors are subject to requirements of MAAPP, specifically the regulations on electronic communications and one-on-one interactions. These requirements include the following:
- All virtual trainings/coaching/meetings must be “observable and interruptible,” able to be ended at any time, and have at least two applicable adults on each session, i.e., coach and assistant, coach and club director, etc.
- All parents/guardians must be provided the code or link to join the virtual session.
- All parents/guardians must sign a waiver in advance as these sessions could be viewed as individual training. A record of which clubs/coaches have been approved to conduct these sessions should be kept. USAV has created a standardized waiver form if you care to use it.
- If a minor athlete ends up emailing a video to a coach for feedback or additional coaching, the coach needs to copy the parent/guardian and/or other applicable adult on all correspondences.
We are confident you will find this update to be good news in these unprecedented times.
Stay safe, stay healthy and GO USA!
March 31, 2020 Update
USA Volleyball is extending the elimination of sanctions for all USA Volleyball activities (including but not limited to events, practices, team activities, individual training sessions or anything covered by USA Volleyball insurance) through April 30, 2020. USA Volleyball is monitoring the situation daily and will continue to provide updates on a regular basis.
USA Volleyball has been asked by local clubs whether such ban applies to club activities covered under the club’s own (non-USA Volleyball) insurance. In these situations, USA Volleyball strongly encourages all member clubs and coaches to adhere to USA Volleyball’s policies. However, should a club decide to voluntarily disregard those policies and assume all risks associated therewith, we recommend that the club adhere to CDC; local, state and federal guidelines and recommendations when deciding whether or not to host practices or individual training sessions. If a club does host practice or individual training sessions, those activities would be considered a non-sanctioned activity by USA Volleyball and thus NOT covered by USA Volleyball insurance.
The health and welfare of our membership, volleyball families and fellow citizens is our primary concern in all decisions we are making during these uncharted times.
March 19, 2020 Update - 3:30 p.m. Mountain
USA Volleyball is announcing the elimination of sanctions for all USA Volleyball activities (including but not limited to events, practices, team activities, individual training sessions or anything covered by USA Volleyball insurance) through April 15, 2020. USA Volleyball is monitoring the situation daily and will continue to provide updates on a regular basis.
USA Volleyball has been asked by local clubs whether such ban applies to club activities covered under the club’s own (non-USA Volleyball) insurance. In these situations, USA Volleyball strongly encourages all member clubs and coaches to adhere to USA Volleyball’s policies. However, should a club decide to voluntarily disregard those policies and assume all risks associated therewith, we recommend that the club adhere to CDC; local, state and federal guidelines and recommendations when deciding whether or not to host practices or individual training sessions. If a club does host practice or individual training sessions, those activities would be considered a non-sanctioned activity by USA Volleyball and thus NOT covered by USA Volleyball insurance.
The health and welfare of our membership, volleyball families and fellow citizens is our primary concern in all decisions we are making during these uncharted times.
March 18, 2020 Update
USA Volleyball announced on March 13 the elimination of sanctions for all USA Volleyball activities (including but not limited to events, practices, team activities, individual training sessions or anything covered by USA Volleyball insurance) through March 31. USA Volleyball is monitoring the situation daily and will continue to provide updates on a regular basis.
USA Volleyball has been asked by local clubs whether such ban applies to club activities covered under the club’s own (non-USA Volleyball) insurance. In these situations, USA Volleyball strongly encourages all member clubs and coaches to adhere to USA Volleyball’s policies. However, should a club decide to voluntarily disregard those policies and assume all risks associated therewith, we recommend that the club adhere to CDC; local, state and federal guidelines and recommendations when deciding whether or not to host practices or individual training sessions. If a club does host practice or individual training sessions, those activities would be considered a non-sanctioned activity by USA Volleyball and thus NOT covered by USA Volleyball insurance.
The health and welfare of our membership, volleyball families and fellow citizens is our primary concern in all decisions we are making during these uncharted times.
March 13, 2020 Update
We are continuing to monitor the status of COVID-19 coronavirus as it relates to the welfare and safety of our athletes, spectators and staff. USA Volleyball is extending its recommendation that all USAV sanctioned events be postponed or cancelled through March 31st. We are monitoring the situation on a daily basis and will provide periodic updates as information becomes more apparent. Please refer to this page for the latest updated information on USA Volleyball events.
March 11, 2020 Update - 11 a.m. Mountain
The safety of our members, spectators and staff is our paramount concern.
USA Volleyball has this page dedicated to this situation where we will be posting the latest information on the outbreak, USAV event updates, recommended health precautionary measures and any event-specific protocols that will be adjusted as a result of the virus. Given the fluidity of this matter, decisions regarding each event will be determined independently as factors affecting one may not affect another and we are working with each of the local authorities and event venues to increase safety measures.
Finally, we have established a mailbox at healthinfo@usav.org where you can send any inquiries related to this issue.
USA Volleyball response on Coronavirus 2/28/20
GEVA Notices
MAY 20, 2020 UPDATE
GEVA REGION VOLLEYBALL ASSICIATION
Initial Plan for resuming sanctioning of activities:
In this unprecedented and difficult time, the administrative staff of the Region have been meeting on a regular basis, with some in contact daily. The Commissioner, Junior Competition Chair, and the Officials Chair are attending virtual USAV National Meetings and conversing with various USAV offices to keep up with the latest information.
There is positive work being done. We are on track to have a new and more productive Member Management System and a friendlier, more productive Academy. Please understand that in most cases USAV and the other thirty-nine regions are struggling along, as we are, with no more definitive information or answers.
After considering all of the information gathered from, and provided by USAV, the IOPC,Federal, State and Local Authorities it has become evident that we are going to be restricted fora longer time than we hoped for.
An ongoing mandate for the Garden Empire Region is to provide a healthy and safe environment for our members. The Executive Committee has decided to set an initial date that will limit any sanctioning of volleyball activity within the Region. We are beginning to establish interim guidelines to set some expectations and allow for planning for a safe reopening. You are being notified today that the Garden Empire Region will not consider any sanctions (authorizations) of any in person or gathered group volleyball activity prior to June 15, 2020. We reviewing the situation on an ongoing basis.
The only exception is the virtual training approved by USAV when conducted under the strict guidelines provided by them. Please read thoroughly and act upon the information below.
Respectfully, GEVA Executive Committee
Process Update: Please read carefully and fully this important note of clarification and amendment to the previous message from GEVA with regard to One to One virtual Contact.
The procedure is being amended to provide a best practices approach to help protect all persons involved.
GEVA is clarifying that all approvals of one to one contact are for virtual contact only. It remains a violation for any Affiliated Adult to be alone with any Junior Member Athlete other than the approved virtual contact. The administration of this process is a Club responsibility. The jurisdiction remains with the Region, USAV and The Center for Safesport.
MAY 13, 2020 UPDATE
There is a significant update posted by USAV. Please review it. It is in no way to be interpreted as an approval to resume normal activities, We are still quite far away from that in GEVA. The Junior Competition Committee will meet again tomorrow. Expect more updates soon.
Also of Note, All remaining qualifiers were cancelled as of today.
MAY 6, 2020 UPDATE
GEVA’ Response and amendment to USA Volleyball’s statement regarding additional insurances followsUSA Volleyball has been asked by local clubs whether such ban applies to club activities covered under the club’s own (non-USA Volleyball) insurance. GEVA fully supports USA Volleyball’s position as it is stated. “In these situations, USA Volleyball strongly encourages all member clubs and coaches to adhere to USA Volleyball’s policies. However, should a club decide to voluntarily disregard those policies and assume all risks associated therewith, we recommend that the club adhere to CDC; local, state and federal guidelines and recommendations when deciding whether or not to host practices or individual training sessions. If a club does host practice or individual training sessions, those activities would be considered a non-sanctioned activity by USA Volleyball and thus NOT covered by USA Volleyball insurance.” GEVA further recommends that members who hold a current USAV membership be notified that although their membership Is in effect, these specific activities are not sanctioned (authorized), and therefore their USAV insurance is not in effect.
The health and welfare of our membership, volleyball families and fellow citizens is our primary concern in all decisions we are making during these uncharted times.
USA Volleyball and GEVA are situation daily and will continue to provide updates on a regular basis.
USAV’S SANCTIONING OF ACTIVITIES TASK FORCE
APRIL 24, 2020 UPDATE
Dear USA Volleyball Membership,
As parts of our nation have commenced plans for reopening, USA Volleyball CEO Jamie Davis and Board Chair Cecile Reynaud have established a task force to create a comprehensive roadmap to safely restart USAV’s sanctioning of activities when it is appropriate.
Locate the article by following the USVA Covid-19 link
GEVA / USAV APRIL 23, 2020 UPDATE
The 2020 USA Volleyball Adult Open National Championships - CANCELED
Opens Participants and Fans,
It is with a sad heart that we must officially cancel the 2020 USA Volleyball Open National Championships in Minneapolis, MN.
We want to thank everyone for providing their feedback on the survey that was sent out last week. In order to host the best event possible, we need all of our participants from all over the US and abroad to be able to compete for their respective championship. After considering all information currently available nationwide, there was no viable alternative left but to cancel the event for the 2020 season. We know that this will disappoint many of our teams, and we are deeply saddened as well.
Thank you all again for your patience and support during these unprecedented times. We hope you all stay safe and healthy, and we look forward to seeing you back in 2021.
Sincerely,
USAV Events Staff
UPDATE FOR TUESDAY MARCH 31, 2020
USAV EXTENDS REMOVAL OF SANCTIONS Effective today USAV has extended the removal of sanctions and authorizations through April 30th 2020. The CDC had previously extended their ban on group gatherings until that date as well. GEVA will continue to follow and share all additional updates.
CRITICAL Update 3.13.2020 Edition 2 @ 10pm
This just in from USA Volleyball:
“We are continuing to monitor the status of COVID-19 coronavirus. In the interest of welfare and safety of our membership, USA Volleyball is eliminating the sanctioning for all USA Volleyball activities (including but not limited to events, practices, individual training sessions or anything covered by USA Volleyball insurance) effective 11:59pm, Friday, March 13th. This ban on all USA Volleyball sanctioned activities extends through March 31st. We are monitoring the situation on a daily basis and will provide periodic updates as information becomes more apparent. Please refer to (https://www.teamusa.org/usa-volleyball/features/usa-volleyball-response-on-coronavirus) for the latest updated information.”
The JCC, Commissioner, Officials Chair, and Adult Director were literally on a conference call when this news arrived.
What it means to GEVA and you:
The Message we sent earlier today, is summarized as:
GEVA will no longer support these activities: Scrimmages, Training sessions or Practices will no longer be considered Sanctioned or Authorized by GEVA.
This has now been mandated through USA Volleyball until at least March 31, 2020. Please do not assume you will be allowed to resume activities on that date. Also understand that GEVA maintains the right to extend that date and most likely will be put in a position to do so.
Kevin DesLauriers Rhine Almonacy Bill Doyle Tim Countryman
Commissioner Adult Director Junior Director Officials Chair
K. DesLauriers Rhine Almonacy William Doyle Timothy Countryman
ADDITIONAL CRITICAL UPDATE 3.13.2020
This is further information for you concerning not conducting training or practices during our interim shut down. From an insurance perspective, the insurance we provide for our athletes, coaches, officials and other members does essentially cover illnesses sustained while participating in authorized sanctioned activities.
Now a note of caution: From a risk management perspective, the recommendations from the CDC (included in previous emails) and any guidelines, rules, regulations or mandates issued by any federal, state and local authorities should be followed.
Based upon the actions taken by many other amateur and professional sports organizations, the recommended course of action at this time appears to be to refrain from such activities taking place. This decision is made in an effort to help prevent the spread of this virus.
GEVA is in contact with, and obtaining additional information from USA Volleyball and, through them, our insurance providers.
GEVA is looking at this continually and will continue to do so. Please consider doing your part in the effort to limit the spread of this virus. We need to understand how serious this is and how much bigger it is than the sport we all love.
All of that said; GEVA will no longer support these activities. Scrimmages, Training sessions or Practices will no longer be considered Sanctioned or Authorized by GEVA.
Please understand GEVA believes we are acting in the best interest of our members and that GEVA may make adjustments to this directive at any time; please prepare your members for the news.
CRITICAL UPDATE 3.11.2020 - CANCELLATIONS
Attention GEVA Junior Members. In the best interest of our members, the Junior Competition Committee has decided that all GEVA Conducted and GEVA Authorized (club run) Events are CANCELLED immediately and through the end of March.
No Competitions will be held without regard to the venue or location. Clubs, at their own discretion, are permitted to continue with in-house activities (training lessons, etc.)
This decision was not made lightly as we are well aware of the thousands of people, businesses, venues, and lives in general it impacts.
GEVA will continue to evaluate the situation and keep all of you informed as changes occur. We will send additional information as we go forward.
Be Safe out there. I am certain you will have questions, please contact your Club Director for answers.
MAY 20, 2020 UPDATE
GEVA REGION VOLLEYBALL ASSICIATION
Initial Plan for resuming sanctioning of activities:
In this unprecedented and difficult time, the administrative staff of the Region have been meeting on a regular basis, with some in contact daily. The Commissioner, Junior Competition Chair, and the Officials Chair are attending virtual USAV National Meetings and conversing with various USAV offices to keep up with the latest information.
There is positive work being done. We are on track to have a new and more productive Member Management System and a friendlier, more productive Academy. Please understand that in most cases USAV and the other thirty-nine regions are struggling along, as we are, with no more definitive information or answers.
After considering all of the information gathered from, and provided by USAV, the IOPC,Federal, State and Local Authorities it has become evident that we are going to be restricted fora longer time than we hoped for.
An ongoing mandate for the Garden Empire Region is to provide a healthy and safe environment for our members. The Executive Committee has decided to set an initial date that will limit any sanctioning of volleyball activity within the Region. We are beginning to establish interim guidelines to set some expectations and allow for planning for a safe reopening. You are being notified today that the Garden Empire Region will not consider any sanctions (authorizations) of any in person or gathered group volleyball activity prior to June 15, 2020. We reviewing the situation on an ongoing basis.
The only exception is the virtual training approved by USAV when conducted under the strict guidelines provided by them. Please read thoroughly and act upon the information below.
Respectfully, GEVA Executive Committee
Process Update: Please read carefully and fully this important note of clarification and amendment to the previous message from GEVA with regard to One to One virtual Contact.
The procedure is being amended to provide a best practices approach to help protect all persons involved.
GEVA is clarifying that all approvals of one to one contact are for virtual contact only. It remains a violation for any Affiliated Adult to be alone with any Junior Member Athlete other than the approved virtual contact. The administration of this process is a Club responsibility. The jurisdiction remains with the Region, USAV and The Center for Safesport.
MAY 13, 2020 UPDATE
There is a significant update posted by USAV. Please review it. It is in no way to be interpreted as an approval to resume normal activities, We are still quite far away from that in GEVA. The Junior Competition Committee will meet again tomorrow. Expect more updates soon.
Also of Note, All remaining qualifiers were cancelled as of today.
MAY 6, 2020 UPDATE
GEVA’ Response and amendment to USA Volleyball’s statement regarding additional insurances followsUSA Volleyball has been asked by local clubs whether such ban applies to club activities covered under the club’s own (non-USA Volleyball) insurance. GEVA fully supports USA Volleyball’s position as it is stated. “In these situations, USA Volleyball strongly encourages all member clubs and coaches to adhere to USA Volleyball’s policies. However, should a club decide to voluntarily disregard those policies and assume all risks associated therewith, we recommend that the club adhere to CDC; local, state and federal guidelines and recommendations when deciding whether or not to host practices or individual training sessions. If a club does host practice or individual training sessions, those activities would be considered a non-sanctioned activity by USA Volleyball and thus NOT covered by USA Volleyball insurance.” GEVA further recommends that members who hold a current USAV membership be notified that although their membership Is in effect, these specific activities are not sanctioned (authorized), and therefore their USAV insurance is not in effect.
The health and welfare of our membership, volleyball families and fellow citizens is our primary concern in all decisions we are making during these uncharted times.
USA Volleyball and GEVA are situation daily and will continue to provide updates on a regular basis.
USAV’S SANCTIONING OF ACTIVITIES TASK FORCE
APRIL 24, 2020 UPDATE
Dear USA Volleyball Membership,
As parts of our nation have commenced plans for reopening, USA Volleyball CEO Jamie Davis and Board Chair Cecile Reynaud have established a task force to create a comprehensive roadmap to safely restart USAV’s sanctioning of activities when it is appropriate.
Locate the article by following the USVA Covid-19 link
GEVA / USAV APRIL 23, 2020 UPDATE
The 2020 USA Volleyball Adult Open National Championships - CANCELED
Opens Participants and Fans,
It is with a sad heart that we must officially cancel the 2020 USA Volleyball Open National Championships in Minneapolis, MN.
We want to thank everyone for providing their feedback on the survey that was sent out last week. In order to host the best event possible, we need all of our participants from all over the US and abroad to be able to compete for their respective championship. After considering all information currently available nationwide, there was no viable alternative left but to cancel the event for the 2020 season. We know that this will disappoint many of our teams, and we are deeply saddened as well.
Thank you all again for your patience and support during these unprecedented times. We hope you all stay safe and healthy, and we look forward to seeing you back in 2021.
Sincerely,
USAV Events Staff
UPDATE FOR TUESDAY MARCH 31, 2020
USAV EXTENDS REMOVAL OF SANCTIONS Effective today USAV has extended the removal of sanctions and authorizations through April 30th 2020. The CDC had previously extended their ban on group gatherings until that date as well. GEVA will continue to follow and share all additional updates.
CRITICAL Update 3.13.2020 Edition 2 @ 10pm
This just in from USA Volleyball:
“We are continuing to monitor the status of COVID-19 coronavirus. In the interest of welfare and safety of our membership, USA Volleyball is eliminating the sanctioning for all USA Volleyball activities (including but not limited to events, practices, individual training sessions or anything covered by USA Volleyball insurance) effective 11:59pm, Friday, March 13th. This ban on all USA Volleyball sanctioned activities extends through March 31st. We are monitoring the situation on a daily basis and will provide periodic updates as information becomes more apparent. Please refer to (https://www.teamusa.org/usa-volleyball/features/usa-volleyball-response-on-coronavirus) for the latest updated information.”
The JCC, Commissioner, Officials Chair, and Adult Director were literally on a conference call when this news arrived.
What it means to GEVA and you:
The Message we sent earlier today, is summarized as:
GEVA will no longer support these activities: Scrimmages, Training sessions or Practices will no longer be considered Sanctioned or Authorized by GEVA.
This has now been mandated through USA Volleyball until at least March 31, 2020. Please do not assume you will be allowed to resume activities on that date. Also understand that GEVA maintains the right to extend that date and most likely will be put in a position to do so.
Kevin DesLauriers Rhine Almonacy Bill Doyle Tim Countryman
Commissioner Adult Director Junior Director Officials Chair
K. DesLauriers Rhine Almonacy William Doyle Timothy Countryman
ADDITIONAL CRITICAL UPDATE 3.13.2020
This is further information for you concerning not conducting training or practices during our interim shut down. From an insurance perspective, the insurance we provide for our athletes, coaches, officials and other members does essentially cover illnesses sustained while participating in authorized sanctioned activities.
Now a note of caution: From a risk management perspective, the recommendations from the CDC (included in previous emails) and any guidelines, rules, regulations or mandates issued by any federal, state and local authorities should be followed.
Based upon the actions taken by many other amateur and professional sports organizations, the recommended course of action at this time appears to be to refrain from such activities taking place. This decision is made in an effort to help prevent the spread of this virus.
GEVA is in contact with, and obtaining additional information from USA Volleyball and, through them, our insurance providers.
GEVA is looking at this continually and will continue to do so. Please consider doing your part in the effort to limit the spread of this virus. We need to understand how serious this is and how much bigger it is than the sport we all love.
All of that said; GEVA will no longer support these activities. Scrimmages, Training sessions or Practices will no longer be considered Sanctioned or Authorized by GEVA.
Please understand GEVA believes we are acting in the best interest of our members and that GEVA may make adjustments to this directive at any time; please prepare your members for the news.
CRITICAL UPDATE 3.11.2020 - CANCELLATIONS
Attention GEVA Junior Members. In the best interest of our members, the Junior Competition Committee has decided that all GEVA Conducted and GEVA Authorized (club run) Events are CANCELLED immediately and through the end of March.
No Competitions will be held without regard to the venue or location. Clubs, at their own discretion, are permitted to continue with in-house activities (training lessons, etc.)
This decision was not made lightly as we are well aware of the thousands of people, businesses, venues, and lives in general it impacts.
GEVA will continue to evaluate the situation and keep all of you informed as changes occur. We will send additional information as we go forward.
Be Safe out there. I am certain you will have questions, please contact your Club Director for answers.