Dear Antlers-
Happy New Year – on behalf of the club I hope you had a safe and enjoyable break. As you will remember the September move up in age / rules was delayed and therefore from a Youth rugby perspective all age groups have now stepped up to their “correct” age group rules. Looking ahead there is much to look to and we plan to host our two Mini’s festivals at Bushy Park and several age groups have tours planned later in the season.

This weekend sees the resumption of rugby and I would just like to share a few updates;
as a club we are adopting the RFU updates relating to COVID related protocols for training, fixtures and clubhouse operations until further notice for all players, coaches, team managers, parents and visiting teams.

1. All players, coaches and parents of home and away teams are encouraged to take a lateral flow test before setting off to the club (fixtures or training) . Do not attend the club if the test is positive or you are displaying any COVID symptoms.
2. Player are encouraged to arrive changed into their playing kit and if using the changing rooms and showers to minimise the time spent inside. The advice is to wear a mask whilst in the changing rooms.
3. All clubhouse bifold doors and shutters will be kept open during bar and kitchen operating times. You are encouraged to eat and drink outside if the weather allows. Please dress accordingly.
4. Everyone should sanitise their hands regularly (sanitiser will be provided around the clubhouse).
5. We will be operating a cash free bar. We accept credit and debit cards plus Apple-pay and Google-pay
6. We be operating a single file bar queue and, on a Sunday, a single file Rapid Cafe queue.

The other important update relates to the significant amount of rain we have had and the impact this has had on the pitches - hopefully a continued dry spell will help but we may need to juggle things around over the next few weeks and there is a risk of cancellations if more rain continues to come down.

Thanks to everyone who volunteers at the club – we rely on your ongoing support and efforts.

James