Protocol for croquet play during the Coronavirus pandemic - May 2020
Objective
To assist member clubs in the creation of a safety protocol for croquet play across
Canada designed to permit the enjoyment, exercise and social interaction inherent in
the game of croquet while minimizing the risk of Covid-19 virus infection.
Background: (for those regulatory agencies unfamiliar with the game)
The game of croquet is played outdoors on a standard green grass lawn which typically
measures 28 by 35 yards. (25.6/32m.) It is a game played at a stand still while shooting,
and a walking pace to retrieve balls. There is minimal risk to infectious particles from
high energy activity. This is not a team sport.
Two to four people play in a 90 minute to 2 hour game, with only two persons occupying
the court at any time. The only items of equipment that are touched during the progress
of the game are personal to the player. The exception would be croquet balls which can
be retrieved and placed in position using the player’s feet, thus avoiding touching. In
short, it is an ideal sport for safe, distanced playing while providing important
exercise to players, many of whom are seniors.
The following is designed as guidance for a club to provide a safe environment for their
members and the community but is not comprehensive. It is expected that each club will
adapt and expand on these suggestions for its particular situation and to meet local
health regulations.
Considerations:
1. How to maintain a safe environment at the croquet club, while playing and using club
facilities.
2. How to manage the handling of equipment for play in a safe way to avoid virus
infection.
3. How to schedule play to maximize safety for players and minimize personal
interaction.
4. How to use facilities at the club (washrooms, kitchens etc) safely.
Disclaimer: The following guidelines are offered with the understanding that
Croquet Canada does not possess medical or scientific expertise or knowledge
but is using established advice from Federal, Provincial and local Government
and Public Health Authority guidelines and directives which should be used as
the final authority when developing local club safety protocol.
Introduction
The Safety Protocol is offered to assist in the gradual reopening of facilities.
Further information will be sent to members and member clubs as government
and public health units remove restrictions on activity and physical distancing.
Insurance and Liability
Insurance held by Croquet Canada for the protection of members and their clubs is
currently being reviewed to maximize coverage, protect officers and governors, and
provide appropriate liability coverage. Some insurance providers are insisting on a
Covid-19 rider to the policy excluding coverage for those who fall sick from the virus.
Croquet Canada recommends strongly that each club require all players to sign a
waiver of liability with specific reference to Covid-19 before they enter the club
premises. Clubs should also review their own insurance to ensure appropriate
coverage.
The above mentioned waiver should include a statement by the player confirming
that he/she is free from Covid-19 symptoms, is healthy to play, will examine their
health prior to each visit to the club for symptoms, and if ill, will not come to the
club.
The player will also affirm on the waiver that he/she will adhere to all safety
protocols established by the club to maintain the health and safety of themselves
and their fellow players.
Safety
To keep players safe, clubs need to:
• Educate members on proper hand washing and hygiene techniques.
• Make available sanitizing gel wipes, soap and disposable paper towels for frequent
and easy cleaning of hands and equipment.
• Ensure hand washing signage is present at all hand washing stations. It is
recommended that players wash their hands frequently rather than wear gloves which
might carry infection.
• Ask players to wear a mask to protect themselves and others, and especially when
using a washroom or inside facility.
• Ask players to examine their health, and, if they have any doubts about their health, or
possible exposure to the Covid-19 virus, stay away from the club and other members.
• Require players to report any failure to maintain safety standards to a club executive
who can take steps to correct the problem.
Getting to the club and lawns
• Advise players not to travel to the club with others. Experts who have observed the
nature of infection of this virus note that there is an enhanced risk when time is spent
with an infected person in a contained space. Therefore, players should travel to the
club on their own, either walking, biking, or driving. The club property should be
restricted to members and maintenance staff only.
• Ensure that all club members are aware of the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and
avoid traveling to the club if they show any symptoms.
Club Operations - Preparing and opening facilities
Clubs will need to determine if the following safety measures can be implemented and
followed. If not, then the club should consider whether or not the clubhouse can be
safely opened. At all times, the guidelines and legislations of Provincial and local Public
Health Authorities must be respected and will take precedence over these
recommendations.
The Clubhouse
• Eliminate the virus on surfaces through the use of soap and water and sanitizing gel
and wipes for hands and equipment.
• Minimize the number of persons in the clubhouse at any one time, each person
keeping proper distancing.
• Wash hands carefully after unlocking the facility, opening doors, turning on lights etc.
• Wash hands before and after handling game equipment, door handles, light switches
or other surfaces.
• Place signage by all entrances and storage facilities outlining the physical distancing
guidelines in place, as well as hand-washing recommendations/protocols.
• Disinfect all surfaces and materials before and after use.
• Turn off all water fountains. Players should bring their own water.
Facilities: (if permitted to be open by local health authorities)
Kitchen
• Limit use of the kitchen to one person who can prepare refreshments as needed.
• Minimize touching of surfaces. Players should use paper towels to touch handles and
light switches.
• Use disposable cups, plates and cutlery to eliminate the need for clean up or sharing.
• After each use, disinfect all surfaces with sterilizing wipes and wash non-disposable
cutlery and cups in soapy water.
• Provide sanitizing wipes and gel for members using the kitchen, outside areas,
equipment rooms and in washrooms.
• Where feasible, players should take their own waste home with them.
If the above protocols are not adhered to by members, clubs should close the kitchen
area and require all refreshments or food to be brought in by each member.
Washrooms
• Limit the washroom use to one person at a time.
• Post signage to indicate when the washroom is occupied.
• Post a clean-up protocol in each washroom to be followed by every user.
• Upon completion of the cleanup, users must wash hands carefully and use paper
towels to close faucets, turn off lights, and open and close doors.
Court setup and tear down
• Limit equipment setup and tear down to as few persons as possible who will observe
proper distancing at all times.
Cleaning equipment
• Between games, clean club mallets, clips, boards and balls, and any other items to be
reused, in a designated location where there is easily available soap, water and
disinfectant wipes.
• At the end of play each day, wash or disinfect all equipment including wickets, string
storage wheels and hammers then store in a designated location which will contain only
equipment which has been cleaned. Only clean equipment should be stored and used
for play.
Scheduling of Games
To ensure that players don’t congregate at the club in numbers that threaten their
health, clubs should:
• Limit players to four people per game, with only two players on the lawn at a time.
• Maintain a two meter distance between players at all times.
• Limit touching of equipment during play to player’s own mallet, clips and ball. Players
are encouraged to use their feet and mallets to lift balls from gutters or position them for
play.
• It is recommended that no tournaments or competitions that involve more than 4
persons per lawn take place until health restrictions are lifted and it is safe to do so.
General Rules for players
• Book a game, date, and time in advance with the club. Do not just show up and expect
to play.
• Arrive no more than 5 minutes before your scheduled time, and leave promptly when
you are finished.
• Practice physical distancing by staying a minimum of two meters (6 feet) away from
each other at all times.
• Use your own mallet where possible. If you do not own your own mallet, you must
follow the posted safety protocols for using club mallets.
• Do not share equipment.
• Do not shake hands or touch other people.
• Do not bring visitors or other non-players with you to the club.
• Do not loiter in the parking lot or at the club before or after you have finished playing.
• Bring your own water and refreshments.
• Take home your own waste material where possible.
• If you are feeling unwell, regardless of the symptoms, stay home.
End of Protocol
Click here to download the PDF of this article
To assist member clubs in the creation of a safety protocol for croquet play across
Canada designed to permit the enjoyment, exercise and social interaction inherent in
the game of croquet while minimizing the risk of Covid-19 virus infection.
Background: (for those regulatory agencies unfamiliar with the game)
The game of croquet is played outdoors on a standard green grass lawn which typically
measures 28 by 35 yards. (25.6/32m.) It is a game played at a stand still while shooting,
and a walking pace to retrieve balls. There is minimal risk to infectious particles from
high energy activity. This is not a team sport.
Two to four people play in a 90 minute to 2 hour game, with only two persons occupying
the court at any time. The only items of equipment that are touched during the progress
of the game are personal to the player. The exception would be croquet balls which can
be retrieved and placed in position using the player’s feet, thus avoiding touching. In
short, it is an ideal sport for safe, distanced playing while providing important
exercise to players, many of whom are seniors.
The following is designed as guidance for a club to provide a safe environment for their
members and the community but is not comprehensive. It is expected that each club will
adapt and expand on these suggestions for its particular situation and to meet local
health regulations.
Considerations:
1. How to maintain a safe environment at the croquet club, while playing and using club
facilities.
2. How to manage the handling of equipment for play in a safe way to avoid virus
infection.
3. How to schedule play to maximize safety for players and minimize personal
interaction.
4. How to use facilities at the club (washrooms, kitchens etc) safely.
Disclaimer: The following guidelines are offered with the understanding that
Croquet Canada does not possess medical or scientific expertise or knowledge
but is using established advice from Federal, Provincial and local Government
and Public Health Authority guidelines and directives which should be used as
the final authority when developing local club safety protocol.
Introduction
The Safety Protocol is offered to assist in the gradual reopening of facilities.
Further information will be sent to members and member clubs as government
and public health units remove restrictions on activity and physical distancing.
Insurance and Liability
Insurance held by Croquet Canada for the protection of members and their clubs is
currently being reviewed to maximize coverage, protect officers and governors, and
provide appropriate liability coverage. Some insurance providers are insisting on a
Covid-19 rider to the policy excluding coverage for those who fall sick from the virus.
Croquet Canada recommends strongly that each club require all players to sign a
waiver of liability with specific reference to Covid-19 before they enter the club
premises. Clubs should also review their own insurance to ensure appropriate
coverage.
The above mentioned waiver should include a statement by the player confirming
that he/she is free from Covid-19 symptoms, is healthy to play, will examine their
health prior to each visit to the club for symptoms, and if ill, will not come to the
club.
The player will also affirm on the waiver that he/she will adhere to all safety
protocols established by the club to maintain the health and safety of themselves
and their fellow players.
Safety
To keep players safe, clubs need to:
• Educate members on proper hand washing and hygiene techniques.
• Make available sanitizing gel wipes, soap and disposable paper towels for frequent
and easy cleaning of hands and equipment.
• Ensure hand washing signage is present at all hand washing stations. It is
recommended that players wash their hands frequently rather than wear gloves which
might carry infection.
• Ask players to wear a mask to protect themselves and others, and especially when
using a washroom or inside facility.
• Ask players to examine their health, and, if they have any doubts about their health, or
possible exposure to the Covid-19 virus, stay away from the club and other members.
• Require players to report any failure to maintain safety standards to a club executive
who can take steps to correct the problem.
Getting to the club and lawns
• Advise players not to travel to the club with others. Experts who have observed the
nature of infection of this virus note that there is an enhanced risk when time is spent
with an infected person in a contained space. Therefore, players should travel to the
club on their own, either walking, biking, or driving. The club property should be
restricted to members and maintenance staff only.
• Ensure that all club members are aware of the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and
avoid traveling to the club if they show any symptoms.
Club Operations - Preparing and opening facilities
Clubs will need to determine if the following safety measures can be implemented and
followed. If not, then the club should consider whether or not the clubhouse can be
safely opened. At all times, the guidelines and legislations of Provincial and local Public
Health Authorities must be respected and will take precedence over these
recommendations.
The Clubhouse
• Eliminate the virus on surfaces through the use of soap and water and sanitizing gel
and wipes for hands and equipment.
• Minimize the number of persons in the clubhouse at any one time, each person
keeping proper distancing.
• Wash hands carefully after unlocking the facility, opening doors, turning on lights etc.
• Wash hands before and after handling game equipment, door handles, light switches
or other surfaces.
• Place signage by all entrances and storage facilities outlining the physical distancing
guidelines in place, as well as hand-washing recommendations/protocols.
• Disinfect all surfaces and materials before and after use.
• Turn off all water fountains. Players should bring their own water.
Facilities: (if permitted to be open by local health authorities)
Kitchen
• Limit use of the kitchen to one person who can prepare refreshments as needed.
• Minimize touching of surfaces. Players should use paper towels to touch handles and
light switches.
• Use disposable cups, plates and cutlery to eliminate the need for clean up or sharing.
• After each use, disinfect all surfaces with sterilizing wipes and wash non-disposable
cutlery and cups in soapy water.
• Provide sanitizing wipes and gel for members using the kitchen, outside areas,
equipment rooms and in washrooms.
• Where feasible, players should take their own waste home with them.
If the above protocols are not adhered to by members, clubs should close the kitchen
area and require all refreshments or food to be brought in by each member.
Washrooms
• Limit the washroom use to one person at a time.
• Post signage to indicate when the washroom is occupied.
• Post a clean-up protocol in each washroom to be followed by every user.
• Upon completion of the cleanup, users must wash hands carefully and use paper
towels to close faucets, turn off lights, and open and close doors.
Court setup and tear down
• Limit equipment setup and tear down to as few persons as possible who will observe
proper distancing at all times.
Cleaning equipment
• Between games, clean club mallets, clips, boards and balls, and any other items to be
reused, in a designated location where there is easily available soap, water and
disinfectant wipes.
• At the end of play each day, wash or disinfect all equipment including wickets, string
storage wheels and hammers then store in a designated location which will contain only
equipment which has been cleaned. Only clean equipment should be stored and used
for play.
Scheduling of Games
To ensure that players don’t congregate at the club in numbers that threaten their
health, clubs should:
• Limit players to four people per game, with only two players on the lawn at a time.
• Maintain a two meter distance between players at all times.
• Limit touching of equipment during play to player’s own mallet, clips and ball. Players
are encouraged to use their feet and mallets to lift balls from gutters or position them for
play.
• It is recommended that no tournaments or competitions that involve more than 4
persons per lawn take place until health restrictions are lifted and it is safe to do so.
General Rules for players
• Book a game, date, and time in advance with the club. Do not just show up and expect
to play.
• Arrive no more than 5 minutes before your scheduled time, and leave promptly when
you are finished.
• Practice physical distancing by staying a minimum of two meters (6 feet) away from
each other at all times.
• Use your own mallet where possible. If you do not own your own mallet, you must
follow the posted safety protocols for using club mallets.
• Do not share equipment.
• Do not shake hands or touch other people.
• Do not bring visitors or other non-players with you to the club.
• Do not loiter in the parking lot or at the club before or after you have finished playing.
• Bring your own water and refreshments.
• Take home your own waste material where possible.
• If you are feeling unwell, regardless of the symptoms, stay home.
End of Protocol
Click here to download the PDF of this article
Update - May 13th, 2020
As many of you know, Parks and Rec have indicated that no permits will be granted until the end of June. After that, we will need to put a protocol in place to protect people which will include distancing, washing hands, limiting play to singles, spacing games, cleaning equipment etc. I am working on a draft for Croquet Canada which we will adapt for our own situation at North Toronto.
Because we will be limited to singles play, we will need to space our games and schedule them in advance. I propose an online system which we will develop and roll out prior to permission to play. Games will be scheduled in advance.
It is very unlikely that we will be able to hold any tournaments, corporate functions, or other group gatherings. But I am optimistic that we will get to play, keep up our skills, and stay healthy as a club, not only physically but also financially.
We wish to thank all those members who have forwarded their annual dues to Christine Jones to support our court maintenance, which must continue whether we get to play or not.
Details on how to pay may be found on our website, northtorontocroquet.ca on the members page. Incidentally, we have redesigned the website for a fresh look. Please visit and feel free to suggest any improvements or corrections. A website is an ongoing communications tool that is especially important during these times of separation.
We will keep the membership up to date as we know more about the government’s opening strategy.
The President,
North Toronto Lawn Bowling and Croquet Club
Because we will be limited to singles play, we will need to space our games and schedule them in advance. I propose an online system which we will develop and roll out prior to permission to play. Games will be scheduled in advance.
It is very unlikely that we will be able to hold any tournaments, corporate functions, or other group gatherings. But I am optimistic that we will get to play, keep up our skills, and stay healthy as a club, not only physically but also financially.
We wish to thank all those members who have forwarded their annual dues to Christine Jones to support our court maintenance, which must continue whether we get to play or not.
Details on how to pay may be found on our website, northtorontocroquet.ca on the members page. Incidentally, we have redesigned the website for a fresh look. Please visit and feel free to suggest any improvements or corrections. A website is an ongoing communications tool that is especially important during these times of separation.
We will keep the membership up to date as we know more about the government’s opening strategy.
The President,
North Toronto Lawn Bowling and Croquet Club
Update for May 2020
Hello everyone,
Here is an update on our club and how its been affected by regulations related to the Covid-19 virus pandemic.
Currently, the City of Toronto is under a state of emergency and has closed all park facilities including our club and its lawns. Consequently, our season will not begin, all club and tournament play is suspended, and access to our club will not be available until further notice.
Parks Forestry and Recreation, City of Toronto, is not issuing permits for use of park facilities until at least June 29th, just prior to the Canada Day weekend. It is likely that even when permits are issued and we are at last permitted to play, there will be physical distancing requirements and other limitations.
In addition, the club will develop and put into place a protocol for play designed to minimize the risk to players, but still allowing us to enjoy the game and its many social and physical benefits. While this may spread out our play, with fewer players on the court at one time, we are fortunate to have two full courts available so we will have lots of playing time for all members.
We would caution members not to attempt to play prior to the lifting of restrictions. There are severe fines associated with infractions, and possible consequences for the club. So, while we all are eager to get on the lawns, let’s wait until we receive our permits and make sure we are safe.
Croquet Canada (see croquet.ca) announced recently that it would not be sanctioning any tournaments this season, expecting the pandemic will continue to make travel and group play impossible this summer. It also, however, encouraged members to continue to contribute to their local clubs.
North Toronto is faced with a serious financial burden because over half its income last season came from tournaments and corporate events. None of these income sources are likely this season. In addition, expenses such as permit fees and lawn maintenance continues. This is why it is vital that members pay their membership dues now to ensure the lawns are ready when we are permitted to play.
The President,
North Toronto Lawn Bowling and Croquet Club
Here is an update on our club and how its been affected by regulations related to the Covid-19 virus pandemic.
Currently, the City of Toronto is under a state of emergency and has closed all park facilities including our club and its lawns. Consequently, our season will not begin, all club and tournament play is suspended, and access to our club will not be available until further notice.
Parks Forestry and Recreation, City of Toronto, is not issuing permits for use of park facilities until at least June 29th, just prior to the Canada Day weekend. It is likely that even when permits are issued and we are at last permitted to play, there will be physical distancing requirements and other limitations.
In addition, the club will develop and put into place a protocol for play designed to minimize the risk to players, but still allowing us to enjoy the game and its many social and physical benefits. While this may spread out our play, with fewer players on the court at one time, we are fortunate to have two full courts available so we will have lots of playing time for all members.
We would caution members not to attempt to play prior to the lifting of restrictions. There are severe fines associated with infractions, and possible consequences for the club. So, while we all are eager to get on the lawns, let’s wait until we receive our permits and make sure we are safe.
Croquet Canada (see croquet.ca) announced recently that it would not be sanctioning any tournaments this season, expecting the pandemic will continue to make travel and group play impossible this summer. It also, however, encouraged members to continue to contribute to their local clubs.
North Toronto is faced with a serious financial burden because over half its income last season came from tournaments and corporate events. None of these income sources are likely this season. In addition, expenses such as permit fees and lawn maintenance continues. This is why it is vital that members pay their membership dues now to ensure the lawns are ready when we are permitted to play.
The President,
North Toronto Lawn Bowling and Croquet Club
The Paul Kropp Memorial Tricky Wicket 2019
The rain, heavy at times, was the big player at this year’s Paul Kropp Memorial Tricky Wicket, held August 17th at the North Toronto Croquet Club. But it won no awards from the 16 hearty souls who braved the wet lawns to set themselves against the Tricky Wicket. It’s a big red teeter-totter of a wicket consisting of a rocking drain pipe. It demands a perfect entry to take the croquet ball up, over and through. This on-court trip-up has sunk many a four ball break in the past. It continued to do its worst to this year’s hapless victims, as if the rain was not enough of a handicap!
Retreating to the dry warmth of the clubhouse at noon, players enjoyed a hearty lunch of pork tenderloin, rotisserie chicken, and pasta, quinoa and green salads. Watermelon and cookies filled any space left. A satisfying break from the wet lawns.
The second-half of play beckoned and with a break in the rain, out went the players to carry on their struggle against the dreaded Tricky Wicket!
A ring of the bell stopped everything in its tracks... no last ball chance to save the day. Time to tote up the scores.
Patrick Little was recognized with the Paul Kropp prize for his qualities of good cheer, sportsmanship and dedication to Croquet.
The Johns were the Tricky Wicket winners .... John Richardson won the day on head to head calculation, with John Miles coming a close second. John R. admitted earlier to being rusty but quickly returned to winning form. This was John M.’s first US tournament and in addition to choosing good partners, which is always the recipe for success in doubles, he played consistently well.
Another novice picked up third spot and her prize to remember the day. A golf croquet player of several years, Catherine Driscoll ventured into the sometimes intimidating realm of US rules, assisted this time with a special Tricky Wicket concession that eliminated carry-over deadness for novice players. This adjustment to the rules boosts active play, and lets new players approach the game with less fear and trepidation. Everyone, in a quick poll, agreed that this was a valuable change, encouraging new participates in tournament play.
The sun broke through clouds towards the end of the day, a bright conclusion to a day enjoyed by all.
Retreating to the dry warmth of the clubhouse at noon, players enjoyed a hearty lunch of pork tenderloin, rotisserie chicken, and pasta, quinoa and green salads. Watermelon and cookies filled any space left. A satisfying break from the wet lawns.
The second-half of play beckoned and with a break in the rain, out went the players to carry on their struggle against the dreaded Tricky Wicket!
A ring of the bell stopped everything in its tracks... no last ball chance to save the day. Time to tote up the scores.
Patrick Little was recognized with the Paul Kropp prize for his qualities of good cheer, sportsmanship and dedication to Croquet.
The Johns were the Tricky Wicket winners .... John Richardson won the day on head to head calculation, with John Miles coming a close second. John R. admitted earlier to being rusty but quickly returned to winning form. This was John M.’s first US tournament and in addition to choosing good partners, which is always the recipe for success in doubles, he played consistently well.
Another novice picked up third spot and her prize to remember the day. A golf croquet player of several years, Catherine Driscoll ventured into the sometimes intimidating realm of US rules, assisted this time with a special Tricky Wicket concession that eliminated carry-over deadness for novice players. This adjustment to the rules boosts active play, and lets new players approach the game with less fear and trepidation. Everyone, in a quick poll, agreed that this was a valuable change, encouraging new participates in tournament play.
The sun broke through clouds towards the end of the day, a bright conclusion to a day enjoyed by all.
