First, we want to extend our appreciation to the front-line and essential workers going above and beyond around the clock to keep Albertans safe – our sincerest thanks for what you have done over the last few months.
Second, to our members, partners, clubs, volunteers and provincial supporters, know that we miss you and are thankful for your engagement during this time. These unprecedented times have called for unprecedented efforts.
Across the country, provinces and territories are phasing in plans to reopen in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, and in doing so there are many questions about the return to artistic swimming, what that might look like and when it will happen.
As previously announced Canada Artistic Swimming along with our aquatic partners of Diving Canada, Swimming Canada, and Water Polo Canada, are working on an initiative to develop general requirements for return to sport in an aquatic environment. The intent of this working group is to develop common guidelines to assist all our Members and clubs in returning safely to swimming pools as we learn to live in a COVID landscape.
Upon completion of the aquatic general guidelines document from CAS, Alberta Artistic Swimming will ensure that the development of our return plans for our clubs and members aligns with those guidelines while adhering to our municipal, provincial and national health guidelines and restrictions. The implementation of such plans will happen when, and only when, our provincial government and health authorities deem it safe to do so.
As all sports progress on their return to play plans in this province and others, they may do so at different speeds, and at different times, based on direction from health authorities. Our sport for the coming season will look different, that much we do know. We ask for patience as we work towards ensuring artistic swimming plays its role in bringing organized sports back to our communities.
Our priority continues to be the health and safety of everyone involved in our sport and as such, that priority will determine when we return, not our desire to get back in the pool. Until then, please continue to follow the guidelines set by our provincial government to help limit the spread of COVID-19. Only by working together will we be able to make a difference and advance Alberta’s relaunch strategy.
Thank you for your passion and dedication to artistic swimming and we can’t wait to see you back in the pool in a safe environment.
