The Guernsey FA is continuing to monitor the guidance being issued by the States of Guernsey in response to the COVID-19 situation along with that of the Football Association (FA).

On Monday 16^th March, and in response to the advice from the UK Government, the FA position regarding grassroots football participation materially changed, which has in many ways consolidated the approach already taken by the GFA.

The new FA position is also consistent with the advice from the States of Guernsey’s Director of Public Health earlier on the 16^th March, which stated that event organisers and those attending events should consider the likely number of attendees, whether it will be possible to maintain social distancing, and whether it allows for good hygiene to be maintained. This advice can be found via the following link; https://gov.gg/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=123968&p=0

In addition, and for those that have not yet seen this information, the statement issued by the FA this evening is as follows:

FA Announcement: Coronavirus; football postponed

Following the Government’s announcement today, for people to avoid social contact and gatherings where possible, we are now advising that all grassroots football in England is postponed for the foreseeable future.

Throughout this period, we have taken Government advice with the priority being the health and wellbeing of all. We will continue to work closely with the grassroots game during this time.

We are in regular communication with the Government and the situation within English football at all levels remains under regular review. Further updates will follow as needed.

Guernsey FA Chief Executive Officer, Gary Roberts commented that:

“For clarity, the advice being issued by the FA is to apply to all affiliated football, which includes both competitive matches and club based training. It is really pleasing to have seen the quick, decisive and proactive actions being taken by GFLM and the clubs within Guernsey football in recognising the severity of the situation and following the guidance being issued by the States of Guernsey and the GFA. I am however, aware that there have been questions about whether clubs are able to continue training. For the avoidance of doubt, and based on the advice from both the States of Guernsey and the FA, the GFA is recommending that all clubs cease any and all training activities at this time. Such recommendations are not taken lightly but as previously stated, the health and well-being of the community is, and should be, at the forefront of our decision making and the guidance being issued.”

The GFA will continue to provide updates and advice to the local affiliated game as and when they become available. In addition, the GFA is available to answer any questions, or should clubs require further information or guidance above that already provided. It is also recommended that everybody continues to monitor the States of Guernsey website for local updates.