Statement on COVID-19 from USA Softball
For the latest updates from USA Softball regarding COVID-19 please visit:ย go.teamusa.org/2Q4GRxB
| With the news of the increasing spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), we wanted to inform you that we are taking this situation very seriously. Our hearts go out to those impacted by COVID-19, and we understand the critical importance of protecting those most susceptible to the virus. The safety and well-being of the USA Softball community continues to be the top priority for USA Softball. We are monitoring the situation closely, and we are advising the USA Softball community to follow the guidelines set by the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), your stateโs public health department (click here for a listing of state public health department), and other county and/or local authorities including area school districts and government agencies. We encourage all those that are actively participating in USA Softball tournaments and various activities โ including players, coaches, umpires, staff/volunteers, families, and fans โ to follow the best practices as outlined by the CDC, which include washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (if soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer); avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands; and avoid close contact with people who are sick. We would also encourage you all to limit close, physical contact with others (including shaking hands). Click here to learn more about the CDC recommendations The USA Softball community should consult the appropriate county and/or local authorities regarding recommendations on how to proceed with large gatherings of people. Also, if you are ill; have a fever, cough, or respiratory condition; have a compromised immune system; are in any other group that may be at an increased risk of contracting a virus like the coronavirus; or have recently traveled to a country listed on the CDCโs Risk Assessment by Country, we encourage you to refrain from USA Softball-related activities until cleared by your healthcare provider. USA Softball programs are encouraged to exercise utmost precaution following the guidance of local, state and federal health agencies. Stand Beside Her Tour presented by Major League Baseball (MLB) In regards to the Stand Beside Her Tour presented by Major League Baseball (MLB), USA Softball has made the decision to not hold autograph sessions until further notice on the Stand Beside Her Tour. After reviewing the recommendations by the CDC and local officials within the communities we would be visiting, we came to the conclusion that the potential of the spread of infection, no matter how unlikely or remote it may be, could greatly impact the athletes, staff, friends, family and fans. Any type of one-on-one interactions with non-essential game personnel will be limited. We assessed this situation heavily, and this decision was not made lightly as we know how important the โStand Beside Herโ message means, not only to our team but to our friends, families and fans. We will continue to monitor the situation surrounding the COVID-19 and will make necessary changes to keep us all safe and healthy. Please note, however, that we are moving forward with our Tokyo 2020 preparations. As the situation continues to develop, USA Softball will do our best to continue to keep our community informed. |
