Regretfully, Rugby Illinois Fall Ball is cancelled due to the current state of the COVID-19 pandemic and the guidelines imposed to limit spread of the disease.
The Competition Committee met Sunday evening and assessed it is very unlikely that rugby, designated a high-risk sport under the Restore Illinois All Sports Policy, will reach Play Level 3 this Fall, which is required for competition to occur.
This cancellation does not prohibit activity permissible by the State of Illinois guidelines after RIL approves your Return-to-Play plan.
The State of Illinois currently limits rugby sessions to fifty people or fewer and activity at Play Level 1 (no-contact practices and trainings only). Illinois has determined that flag rugby is considered a medium-risk sport which allows Play Level 2 (intra-team scrimmages with parental consent for minors, but no competitive play).
The COVID-19 guidelines will be available on the Rugby Illinois website by September 1.
Restore Illinois Sports Safety Guidance
SPRING PLANNING
We want to additionally inform all member clubs that the specific dates of our traditional Spring season are yet undetermined. All factors are being evaluated for impact, including changing status of the pandemic, State Guidelines and revision of the IHSA schedule.
In order to better understand how clubs are currently affected, including how IHSA’s revised schedule could influence player numbers, the Competition Committee will have a process for collecting this information/input. A determination on timing of the 2021 season will be made after this information is collected.
We are communicating the fact that no dates are yet established so you have the most current information when engaging in club planning.
We are dedicated to preparing for a safe return to rugby and promise to expediently communicate decisions that impact your clubs, athletes and families.
Take care,
Nick Larma
VP Competition – Rugby Illinois