Following the decision by Corfe Castle FC to withdraw from the League due to the continuing Covid 19 Pandemic which has already beset them, The LMC wish to make an appeal to all players, officials and supporters of clubs in the Dorset Premier Football League concerning the need to remain Covid vigilant. A great many of our clubs, and the hard working volunteers at them, have made great efforts to ensure our games are staged in a safe manner for both participants and spectators, but the LMC remain concerned that not all have followed all the protocols & guidance, and further, we are concerned to see some players not following the rules – which are for their own safety.

The agreement negotiated between the FA and the Department for Culture Media and Sport means that the game of football is not considered a “close contact” by the social distancing regulations, as long as Clubs continue to fully implement their risk assessments. A failure to implement these risk assessments is likely to result in matches being postponed and players and spectators self-isolating, in line with Test and Trace guidance.

As COVID restrictions nationally become tighter, the footballing authorities are becoming increasingly aware of instances where players and spectators are stretching or even ignoring the guidance. Whilst the Clubs and the Leagues do not have the power of enforcement, the Police do have the power to fine individuals for persistent breaches of the guidance. Local councils may also be given extra powers to stop events and shut down parks if they are concerned about threats to public safety.

The Dorset Premier Football League has issued specific guidance to its Clubs, urging players and managers to lead by example, supporting Club volunteers to ensure matches are COVID safe. The League wishes to highlight the importance of a number of measures, including:

*             Teams must follow the advice of the home sides Risk Assessment and ensure only the maximum number of players and support staff enter the changing room at any given time        where applicable, Clubs Risk assessments should allow for a safe number based on the size of rooms and the 1 meter plus rule.
*             If players have to car share they should do so with the same individuals on each occasion. 

*             Where minibuses are used, everyone should wear a face mask and use hand sanitiser before and after entry.
*             Extra seating in technical areas should be provided to ensure the occupants remain at a safe distance from each other and spectators.
*             Spectators must respect the rule of 6 and maintain social distancing at all times, inside and outside the clubhouse.

It is vitally important to stress that “Sport being exempt from the regulations” refers ONLY to whilst actually participating in the match, on the field of play – Players are NOT exempt from anything before or after matches!

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Ian Beattie, the appointed DPL Covid-19 officer has offered to assist any club with their Covid-19 precautions by visiting on match days.  Contact Ian by email Ian at ian.beattie623@gmail.com.

Finally – can we urge ALL Players, Officials & Supporters to renew your efforts, check your guidance and risk assessments, update them if necessary, and above all STAY VIGILANT – Not just for football matches to safely continue, but for the health of all in the football family, which includes many volunteers who may not be of the same age and health status as those that need to act in the best possible fashion.

LMC Dorset Premier Football League