“The players can’t wait to get back out there,” says GRFU President Ryan Dey

Rugby at a standstill

By Timothy Jaikarran

The 3rd wave of the COVID-19 pandemic has definitely done its share of damage to sports in general. At one point, things had eased down and there was a resumption of some sports, and Rugby was ready to have its moment.
However, like a thief in the night, the pandemic sneaked up and again things are at somewhat of a standstill.

GRFU President Ryan Dey

President of the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU), Ryan Dey, while noting that Rugby is at a standstill, is adamant that the GRFU is optimistic of a restart once the vaccination roll-out has been completed. In an exclusive interview with <<Guyana Times Sport>>, Dey answered a series of questions, and concluded by urging everyone to remain safe.
Q: How is rugby going at the moment?
A: Rugby is at a standstill, we understand that the country has been seeing a rise in COVID-19 cases, and we don’t want to add to that. Maybe when most of the population has been vaccinated, we will look for the return of play. Currently, things are tough on the guys. It’s been a year since we had competitive rugby in Guyana, and the guys can’t wait to get out there again.
Q: What do you think can be done to make the sport even more COVID-friendly, as other countries with more cases have resumed playing?
A: I think more testing of players is one of the ways in which we can get to play; and, of course, if more people take the vaccine, we can get back to play. That, coupled with us, the union, keeping all the safety protocols prescribed by the task force.
Q: How do you feel the leadership is doing at the moment?
A: I think that they are doing a good job, all things considered. There’s always room for improvement, however. I tell the guys and girls to adhere to the COVID 19 guidelines, that’s the best way to stay safe.
Q: During this time of your presidency, tell how you have handled the highs and lows of the job.
A: Well, the high of my tenure is us getting the recognition from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, and them making us a core sport. And, of course, the low is that we haven’t had a chance to have any rugby played.
Going forward, the GRFU boss has noted that RAN (Rugby Americas North) is looking to hold a sevens tournament in late November. The location and date are to be determined.