All upcoming RFA tournaments postponed

News

RFA TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE

London, March 15th

It is with a heavy heart that we publish this statement from RFA President David Bawtree, sent in response to the current global pandemic.

“The purpose of this communication is to clarify the RFA’s position regarding the above [tournament schedule] in the light of the Coronavirus outbreak.

The RFA’s priority is the health, safety and wellbeing of its members and those with whom we come into contact either as players or spectators. At the same time, the playing of the game is dependent on the policies of the host locations, primarily schools. As of today, we have been informed that St Paul’s School and Bradfield College will be unavailable until further notice. This means that the Schools National Championships and the Winchester Mixed Doubles will have to be postponed. Additionally, there is no access to the Marlborough College courts at present, which puts the National Veterans/Masters/Grand Masters and the National Girls’ Championships (U13-16) in jeopardy.

Given that the outbreak is forecast to get worse over the next few months, the only sensible course of action is to postpone all tournaments until the situation eases and facilities become available again. Tournament organisers are encouraged to re-arrange their event at that stage but it is recognised that this may be very difficult to achieve, not least if current restrictions continue over the summer.

This will come as a disappointment to all those who look forward to and derive great enjoyment from playing in tournaments, but I’m sure you will understand the necessity of taking these steps.”

The RFA will continue to update its members with the latest news as events develop, so please do keep an eye on the Association’s website and social media feeds over the coming months.

We look forward to being able to resume our championship activities in due course, but in the meantime, we send our best wishes for good health to all Fives players and their loved ones in these difficult times.