C.B. Bechtel – Executive Director – Updated COVID-19 Practice
Updated COVID-19 Practice
A few days ago I sent out an update to everyone at Team Summit regarding COVID and our mandatory mask policy/practice at Team Summit.
Today we received disturbing data from Summit County public health. At this time over 20% of Summit County residents have had reported cases of COVID-19 over the last few months. Over 20% of those have had it in the last 7 days. That doesn’t include those who tested positive using a home test that was not reported.
Therefore, effective immediately, Team Summit will be enforcing the following:
- Masks are required to be properly worn during all Team Summit training and other activities
- This applies to all athletes and staff
- This includes indoor and outdoor activities
- The only exception is the mask can be pulled down just prior to starting a run. But must be pulled back up at the end of the run.
- Team travel (outside of Summit County) will be limited to fully vaccinated athletes and coaches.
- For local team travel masks must be worn at all times and the vehicle windows will be cracked.
In addition, the following measures will be in place when conditions allow:
- Avoid Gondolas unless absolutely necessary.
- When riding a gondola is necessary the coach will request the attendant to not allow other guests in the gondola with our athletes.
- We will social distance as much as possible.
- We will minimize our time indoors during training days.
- We ask that athletes not share food and drinks during breaks.
- We ask that athletes not share clothing, cell phones, or other equipment.
- If the weather is acceptable, we will eat lunch and take snack breaks outside.
- If an athlete has symptoms their parents will be required to pick them up ASAP.
- Parents are asked to wear masks when dropping off or picking up their athlete(s).
Things you can do as a parent to support your athlete:
- Be supportive of our measures to reduce the risk of getting COVID-19.
- If eligible have your athlete vaccinated and boosted.
- Keep your athlete(s) home if they are showing any symptoms of illness.
- Make sure your athlete comes dressed for being outdoors most of the day.
- Make sure your athlete has adequate food and drinks for the entire day of training.
- Ensure your athlete has extra layers in their backpack including a hat, neck gator (these get wet when worn over the mouth and nose), gloves or mittens, and if possible, a coat for eating outdoors.
- Always have your cell phone with you during training in case we need to reach you.
- Wear your mask during drop-off and pick-up.
While we can't eliminate the risk of contracting COVID-19, the more defenses we put in place the more we reduce the risk of getting or spreading COVID. With a little diligence, we can continue to have great skiing and riding for your athletes all season long.
I Love This Sport!
C.B. Bechtel
Team Summit Colorado – Executive Director
CB@teamsummit.org;
"To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift." – Steve Prefontaine