Benzwick optimistic about rugby restart

Jamaica Rugby Football Union (JRFU) Chairman Jerry Benzwick says he is hopeful that the online courses organised by World Rugby to train local rugby personnel as COVID-19 managers will result in the start of the season next month.

However, to ensure a safe return, individuals will be expected to engage in virtual training on how to monitor players and coaches to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

“We actually are privileged to have a COVID certification course online that our rugby clubs and officials will have to take,” Benzwick said.

“That is something that we just got this week from World Rugby, announced online, and we can now use.”

With the uncertainty surrounding the reopening of schools this year, the JRFU will continue to wait for announcements regarding the resumption of high-school games.

However, safety protocols are being put in place for a possible continuation of the season for club rugby.

“Our intention is to restart despite what’s happening, but because schools are putting all athletics and sports on pause for the time being, we have to watch and see how that goes before we get back to the school version of it,” Benzwick said.

“But for the clubs, we are in the process of putting in a timeline for the restart of rugby union for this year.”

The JRFU is still awaiting approval from the Ministry of Sport.

Benzwick says he cannot imagine rugby without contact, but if the pandemic carries on, the JRFU will look at alternative ways to play the game.

- Athena Clarke