British Judo Statement: Reaction to Government Announcement
British Judo are disappointed to learn of the Government’s decision not to allow indoor sports to return for the foreseeable future.
There will be 30,000 disappointed members across England today after hearing the news, all of whom are desperate to get back to the sport they love.
During his statement, the Prime Minister gave no clear timetable as to when these facilities would be able to re-open. Subsequently, the Culture Secretary has publicly indicated an aspiration to re-open facilities from mid-July.
If the Government really believe in the benefit of sport and physical activity on mental and physical health, they need to reconsider their decision soon to reopen indoor facilities.
We recognise there is a fine balance to be struck and that any lockdown easing decisions need to be taken carefully, but utilising indoor space for physical activity is the only way that many people engage in sport and recreation, including a large number of people who are considered most vulnerable.
We find ourselves in the middle of a public health crisis to which sport and recreation must be the answer. Yet we are in danger of losing the very ability to support the health and wellbeing of the nation at this crucial time.
Chief Executive Andrew Scoular said “We understand the disappointment that our members will be feeling today after hearing the news today, none more so than us! The judo community is a resilient one and we WILL bounce back when the time comes.”
“It just means that we need to stick together a little longer before our sport is given the go ahead. Rest assured, we will be exhausting all avenues to convince the Government to fast forward their thinking.”
“However, we do understand it will be imminent and therefore we will continue working hard behind the scenes to prepare for the return of our clubs and members.”
We have prepared a range of materials that will help prepare clubs for the return of the sport, however, following the Government’s announcement today and the reduction of social distancing from 4th July, we will need to re-assess this paperwork and collateral.
We are holding a number of webinars over the coming weeks tailored for specific stakeholder groups within the sport focusing on a safe return. The first edition will take place this Saturday with our Sports team, led by Colin McIver and Joyce Heron, who will speak to Club representatives about recommended preparations for their venue. Click here for more information
We want to be clear. We are ready to return.
#ReadyToReturn
