WWD Update on Tournaments

[nor...@askfred.net]

Dear WWD members,

It has been a while since our last update regarding fencing in the WWD. Hopefully, you have remained safe and healthy during this time.

Last week, Washington State announced that the "Puget Sound" and "West" regions have advanced to Phase 2 of the Healthy Washington Roadmap to Recovery plan. In Phase 2, the following rules are in effect for sporting activities:

- Facial coverings required for all coaches, volunteers and athletes at all times
- Indoor team training, practices, and competitions allowed for low and moderate risk sports. Indoor team practices, training and intra-team competitions allowed for high risk sports. Scrimmage against other teams or training or practices with other teams is not allowed for high risk sports. For all indoor sports the occupancy of the facility may not exceed 25 percent of the fire code occupancy rating.
- Indoor meets, qualifiers, and tournaments allowed for low risk sports. For all indoor sports the occupancy of the facility may not exceed 25 percent of the fire code occupancy rating.

According to the state, fencing is classified as a "low risk" sport so tournaments could now be held as long as they comply with the 25% occupancy limit.

Because of this change, the WWD now must decide whether it will extend USFA sanction to local events held within the Division. The WWD Officers discussed this possibility and, after careful consideration, we have decided to NOT sanction any fencing tournaments at this time.

There are three reasons for this decision:

1. Since the region only just entered Phase 2, it is yet to be seen whether the region can maintain the criteria and remain in Phase 2. If the COVID situation worsens, the state will move the region back to Phase 1.
2. The effect of the new and more contagious virus strains in our region is not yet known.
3. Now that the vaccine is being administered, it would be prudent to allow time for more people to receive it to ensure more are protected.

Since the new rules do permit clubs to hold practice sessions, those who wish to train can do so through their club. While we all enjoy competitions, they are not essential, so we have decided that it is best to not resume them at this time.

Our plan is to revisit this decision in March after some time has passed and we have a better sense of how the region is handling the virus. Hopefully, the infection rate will be lower, and the vaccination rate will be higher.

Thanks for your understanding.
Dan Berke
WWD Chair