Updated Letter from the BCLA President

November 9, 2020

Dear BCLA Members:

On November 7th, BC Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced new Provincial Health orders for the Regional Health Authorities of Vancouver Coastal Health and Fraser Health. Read the joint statement on BC's COVID-19 response here.

The BC Lacrosse Association (BCLA) communicated with other PSOs, lacrosse stakeholders and viaSport BC for direction on the situation. With the information we gathered, notices were distributed cancelling all lacrosse activities (games and practices) for the Lower Mainland on Sunday November 8th. Lacrosse activities on Vancouver Island and the Interior are not affected at this time.

Our current understanding of the announcement/order is the following. The bans began at 10:00 PM Saturday November 7 until November 23 at 12:00 PM, It applies solely to the Fraser Valley and Vancouver Coastal Health Regions.

viaSport's statement Saturday November 7th detailed the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley restriction situation. Please read the viaSport statement here.

Based on the announcement, and discussions with viaSport, it is not clear if team travel may occur between Fraser and Vancouver Coastal Health Regions, or if team travel should be limited to solely within one of these regions. Dr. Bonny Henry's announcement stated non-essential travel to and from the regions in question, which span the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley, is strongly discouraged.

On November 9th, the BCLA was advised by viaSport all outdoor Field Lacrosse activities (practices and games) can resume and remain status quo unless contrary directions from Provincial or Local Health Authorities are obtained.

We must also be aware that the restrictions and orders by the Provincial or Local Health Authorities may change and we must prepare to adapt and adhere to any changes when they occur.

On November 9th, by order of the Provincial Health Officer (PHO), Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley restrictions information was updated. Please see announcement here.

The BCLA is waiting further direction from the PHO and viaSport.

We understand the BC Government will announce a new Ministerial Order that MAY offer new restrictions, including further spectator restrictions at sports activities. We expect this order at any time.

If you have any additional questions, please e-mail me at gerry@bclacrosse.com

Yours in Lacrosse,
Gerry Van Beek
BCLA President