March 13, 2020
TO: CJSA Members
FR: Josh Krusewski - CJSA Executive Director
RE: Coronavirus-COVID-19 - Suspension of all activities
Effective Friday, March 13, 2020, Connecticut Junior Soccer Association is suspending all affiliated and sanctioned soccer activities statewide through April 15th due to the evolving COVID-19 situation. For our member organizations (towns, clubs and leagues) this includes, but is not limited to: all games, practices, clinics, training, ODP, tournaments, in-person meetings and Coaching Education Courses.
Trusting that players, coaches, referees and spectators would never knowingly compromise themselves or others, the fact is that our sport and its related activities provide an opportunity for the virus to spread which we feel is our duty to help avoid (excerpt from the CDC below):
“...COVID-19 is mainly spread through respiratory droplets (sneeze, cough, or sweat) when in close contact (within 6 feet) OR by touching a surface with such droplets and then touching one’s own mouth, nose or eyes...”
As a result, both US Soccer and US Youth Soccer have made a similar decision regarding soccer activities under their purview. They asked the state associations to assess the risks and benefits of postponement, suspension and/or cancellation of upcoming events and Connecticut Junior Soccer - along with many other state associations - has taken this guidance with the highest level of concern. Our decision to suspend soccer related activities and promote social distancing was made in accordance with guidance we received from public health and medical professionals at the federal, state and local levels. We don’t take these types of decisions lightly. But, in the interest of making the health and safety of the entire soccer community, in addition to all others statewide, paramount, we know this is the right step to take.
Connecticut Junior Soccer will evaluate conditions on a continuing basis to determine when it is appropriate to reinstate our affiliated and sanctioned soccer activities. Further communications will be provided via email and on our website.US Soccer has suspended all Coaching Education Courses until after April 30th. Currently scheduled courses will be rescheduled promptly after the suspension of activities is lifted. Currently registered coaches will be credited with prior payment for use towards a future US Soccer Coach Education course.
