The Ontario Government has recently identified that Toronto, Ottawa and Peel regions will be moving to a modified Stage 2 of the Province’s Re-Opening plan beginning Saturday, October 10 at 12:01 a.m. The Toronto, Ottawa and Peel areas will remain in the modified Stage 2 for 28 days. After this period, there will be review by Public Health Officials regarding possible extension or a return to the previous Stage. 

The following restrictions have been decreed by the Government of Ontario that will affect sport in the three hotspots: 

• Indoor gyms and fitness centres are to be closed. 
• Team sports will be limited to training sessions. No games or scrimmages will be allowed. 

Clubs in these regions are to follow the OVA’s Stage 2 Indoor Return to Play protocols (see Indoor Return to Play/Activity Protocols Version 1.1). The protocols at this stage require that skill work and drill instruction is only to be delivered, meaning no scrimmages, game play and competition. The duration for training sessions is recommended to be 60 minutes. Physical distancing is required at all times. 

Coaches and club staff will continue to wear face masks during training sessions at all times. Athletes are still encouraged to wear masks during low to medium activities but are required to wear them in off court activity. 

At this time, we are still uncertain if the announcement applies to  outdoor contexts for sport. Once we have the official emergency orders from the Government of Ontario, we will update the membership with the appropriate action. 

The OVA understands that is unfortunate for all members in the affected areas that have been diligent and abided by Government regulations throughout the pandemic.  Please continue to adhere to the protocols and we will return faster and stronger to our sport. We appreciate the members patience, understanding and cooperation in our return to volleyball.