USA Archery wants to assure you that your health, safety and well-being is our highest priority. As the USA Archery event season gears up, our organization is in regular contact with World Archery (WA) and the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) concerning coronavirus (COVID-19), and we are closely monitoring the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines and recommendations as they apply to event operations and management.
In accordance with current advisories, competitions are going ahead as scheduled unless a directive to do otherwise is given by a relevant public health authority.
We are aware that the situation continues to evolve, and we will communicate updates as soon as possible.
USA Archery issued an official statement on March 2 regarding the coronavirus.
World Archery has also issued an official advice document on the COVID-19 outbreak for event organizers, athletes and member associations. It details the preventative measures and contingency planning that is being implemented at international competition – and is advised at tournaments of all levels. (Read World Archery’s complete statement.)
In addition, please be aware of the below resources from the CDC and the U.S. Department of State to help reduce your personal risk:
Additional resources can be found with the WHO Coronavirus Website, CDC Coronavirus Website. The IOC has also developed specific advice for athletes, including a statement from the IOC Medical and Scientific Director, Dr. Richard Budgett. We encourage you to follow the travel, prevention, testing, and treatment recommendations outlined by the CDC.
USA Archery will continue to closely monitor the situation and will be in immediate contact should there be any change to the status of our events. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. We look forward to seeing you on the field soon and are excited for a big season ahead!
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate this ever-changing situation.
What advice has USA Archery given to event organizers?
USA Archery is maintaining close contact with all organizers. They are being advised to continue preparations for their events as normal unless directives are issued from public health authorities that state otherwise. The objective is to host all events.
What needs to happen for an event to be cancelled?
The postponement or cancellation of events is not within the control of hosts, USA Archery or the archery community, but is caused by the ongoing developments as a result of COVID-19 and subsequent decisions made by public health authorities.
The cancellation of events without recommendation from public health authorities is discouraged as, according to the World Health Organization, these measures are likely to have limited benefit in containing the outbreak.
What do I need to do if an event is cancelled?
All participants and officials will be automatically withdrawn in the case of an event cancellation and no further action will be required.
Will I get a refund if an event is cancelled?
If a USA Archery sanctioned event is postponed or cancelled under the direction of a public health authority or government, neither USA Archery, nor the event organizer will be held responsible for the cost of flight tickets, hotel accommodation and/or any other related expenses. Event registration fees will be reimbursed minus any applicable service fees beyond our control.
Event organizers should discuss possible solutions with hotel providers as part of their contingency planning, however members may be liable according to the booking conditions detailed in their reservations.
USA Archery encourages members to consider refundable or changeable flight and hotel bookings in this period of uncertainty.
What preventative/emergency health measures is USA Archery putting into place?
USA Archery will have medical staff at all national-level events. Participants who feel unwell will meet with EMS who will advise on the most recent protocols; likely participants who are ill will be advised to leave the venue.
As always, restrooms and portable restrooms will be serviced regularly. Handwashing stations and/or hand sanitizer will be available throughout event venues. We will enhance cleaning protocols and staff and volunteers who feel unwell will be advised to stay home.
What preventative measures should I take?
If you feel unwell or have the symptoms of COVID-19 – coughing, sneezing, fever, or shortness of breath – seek medical help early. It is your responsibility to help protect the health of others.
Wash your hands frequently - Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and dry them thoroughly: before and after eating/handling food, after using the bathroom, after coughing, sneezing blowing or wiping your own or children’s noses, after touching public surfaces, etc.
Practice respiratory hygiene – cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Disposed of used tissues immediately and appropriately in a bin.
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USA Archery will continue to closely monitor the situation and will share any changes or updates to the status of our events. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. We look forward to seeing you on the field soon and are excited for a big season ahead!
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