The COVID-19 pandemic has definitely caused a standstill in all sporting disciplines in Guyana, including a full-contact sport like rugby.
GRFU President Ryan Dey
Newly-elected President of the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU), Ryan Dey was set to make big changes to the sport; however, the pandemic has forced the sport to be put on indefinite hold.
With the Public Health Ministry advising everyone to maintain social distancing (six feet), the GRFU boss is asking everyone to take the necessary precautions until it is safe to make extended social contact.
In an interview with Guyana Times Sport, Dey discussed all necessary procedures that should be taken and what’s next for the GRFU. When asked what the association is doing to ensure the safety of players during this season, Dey said, “The GRFU is using this time to reconstruct the outlook of rugby in Guyana, also giving the players and the country at large tips on how to stay safe in these troubling times. You know as a former player I would like to encourage all players to remain fit. They can do their workout at home, free-handed exercise can do a lot in terms of strength and conditioning. I would also encourage them to use social media to their advantage by watching sevens rugby since by the time the we get to play, would be in the form of sevens.”
Dey was a former rugby player
He went on to state that after the pandemic has died down, the GRFU’s first order of business is getting the grassroots programme in order, as it is his vision to take rugby to the schools and also travel the country to start recruitment of male and female players.
In closing, Dey reiterated the importance of adhering to the COVID-19 protocols, urging his Guyanese brothers and sisters to be safe.
“Please stay safe, listen to our health officials, know that COVID-19 isn’t a joke or to be taken lightly, wash your hands, stay indoors as much as possible and please refrain from sharing posts on social media that aren’t true or not from reliable sources.”
