US Squash is closely monitoring the current COVID-19 situation and the potential for further disruptions within the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) acknowledges the COVID-19 situation is “dynamic”. While the CDC recommends avoiding nonessential travel to certain countries, and “usual precautions” for travel to a few countries, the CDC is not recommending any limits on U.S.-based travel at this time. We do, however, understand the squash community’s concerns regarding travel and prioritize player and family safety as paramount.
In response, US Squash will waive the late-withdrawal rankings penalty for junior tournaments until further notice. Regarding tournament fees, given these are locally operated events with costs already incurred post-deadline, we are unable to facilitate refunds. US Squash does not currently have plans to postpone or cancel any National Championships, though we will monitor the progress of the disease on a daily basis to inform decision-making in consultation with the appropriate authorities.
The CDC suggests that decisions about the implementation of community measures will be made by local and state officials, in consultation with federal officials as appropriate, and based on the scope of the outbreak and the severity of illness. Implementation will require extensive community engagement, with ongoing and transparent public health communications.
As many of you have read from several sources already, the CDC also reminds individuals that common-sense everyday precautionary measures should be practiced to prevent the spread of infections, including frequent hand washing, staying home when sick, and covering coughs and sneezes. To see some helpful CDC videos regarding COVID-19, please click here.
US Squash will continue to provide updates to inform the community of any changes to policies or impact to US Squash programs as a result of COVID-19.
