March 13, 2020

The Board of the English Ice Hockey Association has noted Thursday’s announcement that the UK is moving into the next stage of the action against COVID-19, coronavirus.

Currently all EIHA games will continue as scheduled and planning continues for our end of season events in Juniors, Women’s National Ice Hockey League, National Ice Hockey League and University.

The Board are in regular contact with Sport England and take advice continually from the government via DCMS (Department for Culture, Media & Sport) and NHS England.

At present we reiterate the steps published in the joint statement made by the UK hockey bodies last week (March 5):

• Wash your hands frequently and regularly.

• Refrain from unnecessary contact, if possible., e.g., shaking hands and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• If you experience any symptoms, e.g., difficulty breathing, cough and fever, seek medical advice from NHS 111. Don’t return to action until you are given the all-clear.

• Throw away any tissue after use, to prevent contamination. “Catch It, Bin It, Kill It”

• Don’t share drinking from the same bottle or glass.

• Clean and disinfect your equipment.

• Practise good hygiene, mitigates your risks of catching the virus.

• Avoid travel to any countries where government warnings are in place.

The new advice effective today, March 13, issued by the government and the NHS – stay at home for 7 days if you have either: a high temperature or a new continuous cough.

Players should still refrain from handshakes with officials and fellow players, and the post-game handshake line will remain with gloved ‘fist bumps’ replacing the traditional handshake.

Should the situation change then details will be published via our website and social media channels.

Click HERE to visit the EIHA site.