Dec. 16/24: Basketball at Hamlet PS cancelled tonight (school function).
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Dec. 15/24: Curling cancelled today (potential for freezing rain/drizzle during travel hours).
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Dec. 10/24: Floor hockey cancelled tonight (school function).
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Dec. 9/24: Basketball at Anne Hathaway PS cancelled tonight (school function).
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Nov. 18/24: Basketball at Anne Hathaway PS cancelled tonight (school function).
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Sept. 25/24: 2024-2025 Winter/Spring sport registration is now CLOSED.
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Sept. 17/24: 2024-2025 Winter/Spring sport registration
Just a reminder that our 2024-2025 winter/spring sport registration (via: soostratford.com) opens today (September 17/24). Registration closes (Tuesday) September 24/24.
Note that no late registrations will be accepted and that registrations will be processed in the order received.
Clicking on the GREEN “2024-2025 Winter/Spring Sport Registration” button (on the home page of our web site (soostratford.com)) will take the person completing the registration to two on-line forms: A Sport Registration Form and a SOO Participant Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form.
Both of these forms must be completed (in full) and submitted in order for that registration to be processed.
A couple of items of note prior to accessing our sport registration portal:
All registering athletes will be required to review and sign off on a number of documents (on the on-line registration page), including:
SOO’s “Infection Prevention and Control Measures” (IPCM);
A Guide for Students & Athletes of All Abilities: e-Booklet (Rowan’s Law);
SOO’s Athlete Code of Conduct;
SOO’s Athlete Rights and Responsibilities, and;
PanCanadian Confidentiality Policy.
Please note that we will be returning to an alternating-week format for swimming (lane one week, recreational the next, etc.). Depending on registration requests, that format may also be in place for one or more of our other sports.
Once registration is complete, athletes/caregivers will receive a sport-specific e-mail for each sport in which that athlete is registered which includes details about that sport (e.g., format).
Registration fees ($35/athlete for basketball, floor hockey, 5 pin and curling and $25 for swimming) will be collected over the course of the season.
A small surcharge will also be applied to curling ($20) and swimming ($15) in order to help offset the costs of operating those sports.
Should you have any questions or experience any issues with our sport registration portal, please contact me.
Looking forward to seeing everyone again!
Jane
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Aug. 6/24: Soccer CANCELLED tonight (wet field conditions).
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July 30/24: Soccer CANCELLED tonight (wet field conditions and predicted t-storms).
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July 29/24: Softball C & D CANCELLED tonight (weather).
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July 18/24: A reminder to our Track & Field athletes that this no T & F scheduled for this evening.
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July 18/24: Golf CANCELLED today (extremely wet course conditions).
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July 16/24: Soccer CANCELLED tonight (by SYS due to extremely wet field conditions).
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July 15/24: Softball C & D (Packham) CANCELLED tonight (inclement weather & wet field conditions).
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July 11/24; Golf CANCELLED today (course closed due to rain accumulation).
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July 10/24: T-ball CANCELLED tonight (wet field conditions).
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July 9/24: Soccer CANCELLED tonight (heat & humidity).
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June 26/24: T-ball CANCELLED tonight (weather and field conditions).
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June 20/24: Track & Field CANCELLED tonight (Environment Canada “Heat Warning” (heat & humidity)).
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June 18/24: Soccer CANCELLED tonight (Environment Canada “Heat Warning” (heat & humidity)).
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June 17/24: Softball C & D CANCELLED tonight (Environment Canada “Heat Warning” (heat & humidity)).
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June 5/24: T-ball CANCELLED tonight (severe thunderstorm watch in effect).
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May 28/24: Soccer CANCELLED tonight (inclement weather and wet field conditions).
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May 27/24: Softball C and D CANCELLED tonight (wet weather and field conditions).
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May 22/24: T-ball cancelled tonight (severe t-storm watch in effect).
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April 24/24: 2024 Summer sport registration is now CLOSED.
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Jan. 31/24: Swimming cancelled tonight (Y pool closure).
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Jan. 24/24: Swimming cancelled tonight (Y pool closure).
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Jan. 23/24: Floor hockey cancelled tonight (weather advisory).
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Jan. 16/24: Floor hockey cancelled tonight (extreme cold warning in effect).
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Jan. 9/24: Floor hockey cancelled tonight (weather).
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Dec. 6/23: Swimming (group 2) cancelled tonight (pool closure).
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Oct. 23/23: Basketball cancelled at ANNE HATHAWAY PS (only) tonight.
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Sept. 27/23: 2023-2024 Winter/Spring sport registration is now CLOSED.
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Sept. 13/23: 2023-2024 Winter/Spring sport registration
Just a reminder that our 2023-2024 winter/spring sport registration (via: soostratford.com) opens (Tuesday) September 19/23. Registration closes (Tuesday) September 26/23.
Note that no late registrations will be accepted and that registrations will be processed in the order received.
Clicking on the GREEN “2023-2024 Winter/Spring Sport Registration” button (on the home page of our web site (soostratford.com)) will take the person completing the registration to two on-line forms: A Sport Registration Form and a SOO Participant Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form.
Both of these forms must be completed (in full) and submitted in order for that registration to be processed.
A couple of items of note prior to accessing our sport registration portal:
All registering athletes will be required to review and sign off on a number of documents (on the on-line registration page), including:
SOO’s “Infection Prevention and Control Measures” (IPCM);
A Guide for Students & Athletes of All Abilities: e-Booklet (Rowan’s Law);
SOO’s Athlete Code of Conduct;
SOO’s Athlete Rights and Responsibilities, and;
PanCanadian Confidentiality Policy.
Please note that we will be returning to an alternating-week format for swimming (lane one week, recreational the next, etc.). Depending on registration requests, that format may also be in place for one or more of our other sports.
Once registration is complete, athletes/caregivers will receive a sport-specific e-mail for each sport in which that athlete is registered which includes details about that sport (e.g., format).
Registration fees ($35/athlete) will be collected over the course of the season.
A small surcharge will also be applied to curling ($20) and swimming ($15) in order to help offset the costs of operating those sports.
Should you have any questions or experience any issues with our sport registration portal, please contact me.
Looking forward to seeing everyone again!
Jane
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Aug. 24/23: Golf cancelled today (wet course conditions).
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Aug. 23/23: T-ball cancelled tonight (weather/field conditions).
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Aug. 17/23: Track & Field cancelled tonight (weather).
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Aug. 15/23: Soccer cancelled tonight (rain/wet field conditions).
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July 26/23: T-ball cancelled tonight (Heat Warning in effect (heat & humidity) + risk of t-storms).
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July 20/23: Track & field cancelled tonight (t-storms).
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July 13/23: Both golf and track & field cancelled today (wet course/field conditions).
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July 12/23: T-ball cancelled tonight.
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July 11/23: Soccer cancelled tonight (significant risk of t-storms).
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July 6/23: Track & Field cancelled tonight (wet field conditions).
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July 5/23: T-ball cancelled tonight (heat and humidity).
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July 4/23: Soccer cancelled tonight (heat and humidity).
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July 3/23: Softball C and D cancelled tonight (wet field conditions).
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June 28/23: T-ball cancelled tonight (poor air quality).
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June 27/23: Soccer cancelled tonight (poor air quality).
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June 26/23: Softball C and D cancelled tonight (wet field conditions).
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June 13/23: Soccer cancelled tonight (weather).
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June 12/23: Softball C and D cancelled tonight (wet field conditions).
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June 7/23: Golf and Track & Field CANCELLED tomorrow (predicted high (poor) Air Quality Health Index).
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June 7/23: T-ball CANCELLED tonight (Packham Rd. diamond #5). Special Air Quality Statement remains in effect for our area this afternoon and into this evening.
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June 6/23: Soccer CANCELLED tonight (Special Air Quality Statement remains in effect for our area this afternoon and into this evening).
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June 5/23: Softball C and D cancelled tonight (Packham Rd. diamonds #2 and #3). Special Air Quality Statement in effect.
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May 31/23: T-ball cancelled tonight (Packham Rd. diamond #5).
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April 26/23: 2023 Summer sport registration is now closed.
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April 16/23: 2023 Summer sport registration
Just a reminder that our 2023 summer sport registration (via: soostratford.com) opens (Tuesday) April 18/23. Registration closes (Tuesday) April 25/23.
Note that no late registrations will be accepted and that registrations will be processed in the order received.
Clicking on the GREEN “2023 Summer Sport Registration” button (on the home page of our web site (soostratford.com)) will take the person completing the registration to two on-line forms: A Sport Registration Form and a SOO Participant Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form.
Both of these forms must be completed (in full) and submitted in order for that registration to be processed.
A couple of items of note prior to accessing our sport registration portal:
All registering athletes will be required to review and sign off on a number of documents (on the on-line registration page), including:
SOO’s “Infection Prevention and Control Measures” (IPCM);
A Guide for Students & Athletes of All Abilities: e-Booklet (Rowan’s Law);
SOO’s Athlete Code of Conduct; and,
SOO’s Athlete Rights and Responsibilities.
Once registration is complete, athletes/caregivers will receive a sport-specific e-mail outlining details (e.g., format) for each applicable sport.
Registration fees ($25 per athlete) will be collected once the season begins. Note that there is an additional $20 surcharge for golf. Athletes attending out-of-town competitions are also responsible for their tournament registration and bus fee (approximately $20 per competition).
Should you have any questions or experience any issues with our sport registration portal, please contact me.
Looking forward to seeing everyone again!
Jane
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Feb. 27/23: Basketball (Hamlet PS) cancelled tonight (weather). End of basketball for this season.
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Feb. 22/23: Swimming (Group 2) cancelled tonight (freezing rain warning).
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Jan. 25/23: Swimming (Group 2) cancelled tonight (weather).
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Basketball D (BLUE cohort): Dec. 19/22 session will be held at Anne Hathaway Public School (77 Bruce Street), 6:30 - 8 pm.
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Basketball D (RED cohort): Dec. 12/22 session will be held at Bedford Public School (59 Bedford Drive), 6:30 - 8 pm.
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Nov. 28/22: Basketball (RED cohort) cancelled tonight (Hamlet PS).
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Nov. 11/22: Important update on masking requirements
Federal, Provincial and local health officials are now strongly recommending that people “layer up” to help prevent getting and spreading COVID-19, influenza and colds.
These “layers of protection” include, among others, staying home when you’re sick, avoiding crowded indoor spaces, maintaining physical distancing, washing/sanitizing your hands, getting vaccinated with all the doses for which you’re eligible - and wearing a mask indoors.
With our focus continuing to be the health and safety of all of our members - and our community at large - our SOO - Stratford & Area Executive Committee has made the decision to reintroduce masking for all of our current (indoor) winter/spring sport programming.
This requirement will take effect TOMORROW (Saturday, Nov. 12/22).
Further details have been provided to our athletes, support/caregivers and volunteers by e-mail.
Thank you, in advance, for your understanding and cooperation as we strive to keep all of our members as safe as possible and our programs active.
Jane
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Nov. 4/22: Start of curling delayed until Nov. 20/22 (ice conditions and facility availability).
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Sept. 27/22: 2022-2023 winter/spring sport registration is now closed. Please direct registration inquiries to Jane Larkworthy (see “Contact” page on this site).
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Sept. 27/22: Update from SOO
Remain Vigilant in the Fight Against COVID-19
Now that Fall has arrived, it is time when our Special Olympics Ontario indoor programs begin to take shape. We are inspired to think that the fall of 2022 will be the first time in two years when we could see all 103 Special Olympics communities across the province become rejuvenated by sport. It truly is an exciting time!
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 virus continues to linger. Therefore, we ask that all our Special Olympics Ontario members continue to be extra vigilant in the fight against COVID-19. Please review the Infection Prevention and Control Measures that we have established. These measures are in place to ensure minimal spread of any contagious viruses and to help keep our members healthy. In addition, each individual should monitor the COVID prevention guidelines that are established by their local municipality, health unit, or facility (if any).
Face coverings are no longer mandated by Special Olympics Ontario, however, individual communities do have the right to mandate face coverings for their community programs, competitions and events. As a member of Special Olympics Ontario, if you feel the need to wear a face covering to any of your sport programs, please do so.
We are no longer required to show proof of COVID vaccination status to attend training sessions, events, or competitions, however we do encourage our members to continue to update their booster vaccines as they become available.
Communities are no longer required to report positive COVID cases to the provincial office. Please contact your local health unit to receive guidance on further actions. If you (or someone you support) think you have COVID or you have tested positive for COVID, please contact your local health unit to receive guidance on how to prevent the spread of the virus.
Remember: IF YOU FEEL UNWELL, STAY HOME!
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Sept. 12/22: 2022-2023 Winter/Spring sport registration
Just a reminder that our 2022-2023 winter/spring sport registration (via: soostratford.com) opens (Tuesday) September 20/22. Registration closes (Tuesday) September 27/22.
Note that no late registrations will be accepted and that registrations will be processed in the order received.
Clicking on the GREEN “2022-2023 Winter/Spring Sport Registration” button (on the home page of our web site (soostratford.com)) will take the person completing the registration to two on-line forms: A Sport Registration Form and a SOO Participant Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form.
Both of these forms must be completed (in full) and submitted in order for that registration to be processed.
A couple of items of note prior to accessing our sport registration portal:
All registering athletes will be required to review and sign off on a number of documents (on the on-line registration page), including:
SOO’s “Infection Prevention and Control Measures” (IPCM);
A Guide for Students & Athletes of All Abilities: e-Booklet (Rowan’s Law);
SOO’s Athlete Code of Conduct; and,
SOO’s Athlete Rights and Responsibilities.
We will very likely be returning to alternating-week formats for a number of our sports. Once registration is complete, athletes/caregivers will receive sport-specific e-mails outlining details (e.g., format) for that sport.
Although we are not planning to collect registration fees this sport season, a small surcharge may be applied to one or more of our sports in order to help offset the costs of operating those sports.
Should you have any questions or experience any issues with our sport registration portal, please contact me.
Looking forward to seeing everyone again!
Jane
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Aug. 25/22: Golf cancelled today (risk of severe t-storms).
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Aug. 17/22: T-ball cancelled tonight (risk of thunderstorms).
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Aug. 16/22: Soccer cancelled tonight (rain and thunderstorms in the forecast).
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Aug. 8/22: Softball C & D cancelled tonight (severe thunderstorm watch).
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Aug. 4/22: Golf cancelled today (weather).
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Aug. 3/22: T-ball cancelled tonight (heat, humidity and risk of thunderstorms).
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Aug. 1/22: Softball C and D cancelled tonight (Civic Holiday).
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July 27/22: T-ball cancelled tonight (SERC softball).
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July 26, 2022: Update from Special Olympics Ontario (SOO) re continuing to monitor COVID-19
As we continue to enjoy the warm weather, we also need to continue to be vigilant in reducing the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
With most of our Special Olympics Ontario (SOO) programs currently training and competing outside, this reduces the opportunity for the virus to spread - but does not eliminate it completely.
All SOO members are asked to review the Infection Prevention and Control Measures (IPCM) that SOO has established. These measures are in place to ensure minimal spread of any contagious viruses and to help keep our members healthy. Note: Copies of the IPCM are available through Jane.
In addition, each individual should monitor the COVID-19 prevention guidelines that are established by their local municipality, health unit or facility (if any).
At this time, face coverings are not mandated by SOO. However, SOO does encourage you to wear a face covering if you feel the need.
SOO is also not requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination to attend training sessions, events or competitions at this time. SOO does, however, encourage members to continue to update their booster vaccines as they become available.
Remember: IF YOU FEEL UNWELL, STAY HOME!
If you think you have COVID-19 or you have tested positive for COVID-19, please contact your local health unit to receive guidance on how to prevent the spread of the virus.
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July 20/22: T-ball cancelled tonight (Heat Warning and Special Weather Statement in effect).
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July 19/22: Soccer cancelled tonight (Heat Warning).
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July 13/22: T-ball cancelled tonight (weather).
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June 22/22: T-ball cancelled tonight (Heat Warning).
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June 21/22: Soccer cancelled tonight (Heat Warning & Special Air Quality Statement).
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June 16/22: Golf cancelled today (risk of severe t-storms + high heat and humidity).
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June 8/22: T-ball cancelled tonight (weather). A reminder that there is no t-ball next week (June 15/22).
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June 6/22: Softball C and D (Packham Road diamonds) cancelled tonight (significant chance of rain and t-storms).
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June 1/22: T-ball cancelled tonight (weather).
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May 31/22: Soccer cancelled tonight (heat and humidity).
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May 25/22: T-ball cancelled tonight (weather). Hoping for sunny skies next Wednesday evening!
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May 18/22: T-ball cancelled tonight (weather).
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May 4/22: Final 5 pin sessions of the season
Reminding our RED cohort 5 pin athletes (who last bowled with us on April 30/22) that their next (and last) bowling date for this season is May 7/22 at 1 pm.
Our BLUE cohort 5 pin athletes will bowl their next (and last) games on Saturday, May 14/22. Please note that the start time on May 14 is 3 pm.
Athletes are asked to arrive 15 minutes in advance of their scheduled start time so we can get started on time.
Those unable to make their scheduled bowling date are asked to bowl out prior to May 14/22.
Jane
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May 3/22: 2022 Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR)
After being unable to hold our (local) in-person Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for the last two years, WE’RE BACK!
This year’s run is scheduled for 11 am on (Wednesday) June 22/22. Constable Fischer says it’s a “rain or shine event”, so come prepared!
Those taking part in the run will meet in the laneway of the Stratford Police Services building (17 George St. W.) at 10:30 am in order to be “on the road” by 11 am. Participants will then run, bike, in-line skate or skateboard from the start location to Boston Pizza where lunch will be served.
T-shirts are available for order from me ($20 each). If you’d like to order a t-shirt, please send me an e-mail including your size. Payment will be collected prior to the start of the run. T-shirt orders are due to me on or before June 1/22.
Should you have any questions, please let me know.
Jane
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April 27/22: 2022 summer sport registration is now closed. Please direct registration inquiries to Jane Larkworthy (see “Contact” on this page).
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April 26/22: “Last call” for 2022 summer sport registration
A reminder that today is the final day to register for our Special Olympics 2022 summer sport season.
If you (as an athlete) or someone you support would like to participate in one (or more) of our summer sports, please register by clicking on the GREEN button on the home page of this web site.
As noted prior to the opening of this summer’s registration period (see April 13/22 post below), given that it may be necessary to limit registration numbers for one or more of our summer sport programs, registrations are being processed in the order received.
Should you have any questions, please contact me.
Jane
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April 13/22: 2022 Summer Sport Registration
Just a reminder that our 2022 summer sport registration opens (Tuesday) April 19/22. Registration closes (Tuesday) April 26/22.
Note that no late registrations will be accepted and that registrations will be processed in the order received.
Clicking on the GREEN “2022 Summer Sport Registration” button (on the home page of our web site (soostratford.com)) will take the person completing the registration to two on-line forms: A Sport Registration Form and a SOO Participant Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form.
Both of these forms must be completed (in full) and submitted in order for that registration to be processed.
A couple of items of note prior to accessing our registration portal:
• Effective May 1/22, SOO will be lifting COVID-19 vaccination requirements for those participating in in-person programs.
• All registering athletes will be required to review and sign off on a number of documents (on the on-line registration form), including:
◦ SOO’s (new) “Infection Prevention and Control Measures” (IPCM; replaces SOO’s previous “Return to Program” documents);
◦ A Guide for Students & Athletes of All Abilities: e-Booklet (Rowan’s Law);
◦ SOO’s Athlete Code of Conduct; and,
◦ SOO’s Athlete Rights and Responsibilities.
Should you have any questions or experience any issues with our registration portal, please contact me.
Looking forward to seeing everyone again!
Jane
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March 22/22: Update from SOO re Return to Program and Return to Competition
Over the past two years, Special Olympics Ontario (SOO) has always made the health and safety of our members a priority. We are very grateful to our membership who chose to Return to In Person Programs, and did so with care and attention to keep everyone healthy. As a result, we have had minimal COVID positive cases within our programs. We are also very thankful to those coaches who embraced our virtual programs as an opportunity to stay connected. Your ability to adapt to new training methods is proof that we will not let anything stand in our way to keep the Special Olympics athletes active. Thank you!
Moving forward, we will continue to keep health and safety a priority as we plan our exit from the Return to Program guidelines. We know COVID-19 still remains a concern in our communities so we will remain diligent to ward off any more opportunities for the virus to spread.
Below is an outline of the Return to Program exit strategy and introduce the Return to Competition plan. Note: should COVID cases begin rising again, SOO reserves the right to revise the exit strategy at any time. School based sport programs will continue to follow the direction of their respective school board. Partner programs will continue to follow the direction of their respective provincial sport organization.
Effective immediately:
SOO will be extending the mask requirements for all SOO indoor programs until further notice. Please refer to the sport specific guidelines, click here
Outdoor programs will follow facility specific mask requirements
SOO Vaccine Declaration process will continue for all indoor and outdoor programs
Return to Program application process will remain in effect at this time
All indoor and outdoor sport programs may now incorporate full scrimmages/competition type training drills within their training sessions
Effective April 1st:
SOO to introduce Communicable Disease Guidelines
Effective April 23rd – Return to Competition
Indoor and Outdoor programs will begin in person competitions with COVID safety protocols and limited capacity
Please refer to the Return to Competition Information here
Effective May 1st:
Communicable Disease Guidelines will replace all Return to Program Guidelines
SOO Vaccine Declaration will no longer be required. All programs to follow their facility specific vaccination guidelines.
SOO RTP application process will no longer be required
Mask requirements for indoor programs will be optional by community
Indoor and Outdoor competitions to gradually increase capacity limits
Thank you for understanding,
Glenn MacDonell
President & CEO
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March 15/22: Update on Athlete Banquet and 2022 Summer Sport Registration
In light of continuing uncertainty as to when it will be safe for our community members to gather together indoors in large numbers, and given that our primary focus remains the health and well-being of all of our community members, our SOO - Stratford & Area Executive Committee has made the very difficult decision to postpone our Athlete Banquet until 2023.
We remain optimistic that by the time our chosen date of May 27/23 rolls around, health concerns which have forced the cancellation of this much-anticipated annual event will be “in the rear view mirror” and we’ll be able to gather together safely once again!
Re our 2022 summer sport registration, we’re currently planning to offer all of our regular summer sports this season (i.e., softball C & D, soccer, t-ball, track & field and golf).
Registration will be open from April 19-26/22 and will be completed entirely on-line via the home page of our web site (soostratford.com) .
Please note that it may be necessary to limit registration for one or more of our program offerings. As such, registrations will be processed in the order received. Late registrations will not be accepted.
Please also note that, at present, SOO continues to require that all in-person program participants (including essential support) be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
At the time of writing, SOO has yet to determine whether this vaccination requirement will apply to their in-person programs this summer. If so, participating athletes, volunteers and essential support will be required to provide proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 prior to their first session.
Should we receive an update from SOO prior to the April 19/22 opening of our on-line sport registration portal we’ll be sure to pass that along.
Should you have any questions regarding the above, please feel free to contact me.
Jane
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Feb. 12/22: Change in start time for bowling on May 14/22
As announced at bowling this afternoon, the May 14/22 date that has been added to our BLUE cohort bowling schedule will start at 3 pm (vs. our usual 1 pm start).
Please note that this change in start time applies only to that May 14/22 (BLUE cohort) session and not to any other bowling dates this season.
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Jan. 27/22: SOO - Stratford & Area’s return to in-person programming
We have great news!
In light of the recent notice from the Premier’s Office (re the gradual easing of public heath measures), Special Olympics Ontario has announced (see below) that they will be following provincial guidelines and resuming in-person activities, effective Jan. 31/22.
As such, SOO - Stratford & Area is now permitted to resume our swimming, bowling and curling programs.
Start dates by sport (by group/cohort, as applicable) will be as follows:
swimming (GROUP 1 (lane swimmers)): Feb. 2/22
swimming (GROUP 2 (recreational)): Feb. 9/22
bowling (RED cohort): Feb. 5/22
bowling (BLUE cohort): Feb. 12/22
curling: Feb 13/22 (ice unavailable on Feb. 6/22 (SCC event))
Please note that athletes in “grouped/cohorted sports” (i.e., swimming and bowling) will return as per their original schedules.
With respect to our basketball and floor hockey programs, an e-mail update will be sent to registered athletes/caregivers and applicable sport volunteers tomorrow (Jan. 28/22).
Should you have questions, please contact me.
So, to quote SOO staff: “Ready, Set, Go ... again!”
Jane
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Jan. 27/22: SOO Update on Provincial Reopening
As a follow up to the recent notice from the Premier’s Office, Special Olympics Ontario (SOO) has announced that they will be following provincial guidelines and resuming in-person activities, effective January 31, 2022.
All indoor and outdoor sports programs having completed the Return to Program process will be permitted to resume training sessions but will be required to maintain the COVID-19 safety protocols for each respective sport. Proof of vaccination will continue to be mandatory for all in person sporting activities.
All in-person fundraising events and meetings may resume and will be required to follow facility specific COVID-19 protocols.
School-based sport programs will continue to follow the direction of their respective school board. Partner programs will continue to follow the direction of their respective provincial sport organization.
As everyone has come to appreciate, things seem to change hour to hour and therefore SOO needs to be pliable as well. SOO will continue to monitor and communicate changes in the provincial regulations as they become available. SOO appreciates and thanks everyone for their ongoing support.
SOO continues to promote the importance of vaccinations to assist in the fight against the COVID-19 virus. If you require further information about the COVID-19 vaccine, please visit https://vaccinesupport.ca.
SOO recognizes that several members of their organization remain hesitant to return to in-person programs. Therefore, SOO continues to provide opportunities to participate in virtual programs such as:
Healthy at Home program: https://sohealthyathome.ca/
Reveal Your Champion: https://revealyourchampion.ca/
Virtual Games: https://sovirtualgames.ca/
Stay informed by going to the SOO website www.specialolympicsontario.com for the latest updates.
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Jan. 19/22: NEW virtual (Zoom) opportunities coming soon!
We’re pleased to announce that our SOO - Stratford & Area community members will soon have access to two unique weekly virtual programs!
1) Powerlifting workout (hosted by SOO - London)
When: Sundays, 11 - 11:45 am (start date Jan. 23/22)
Who: Special Olympics athletes and volunteers from London and other communities
Why: For fun, to make new friends and to get some exercise!
What you’ll need to participate:
running shoes
loose fitting clothing
backpack with 10 - 20 lbs of weight (e.g., dumbbells, kettle weights, (4 or 5) 2 litre pop bottles (full), books or cans)
a chair
a wall
a bottle of water
smiles!
2) “Local Connections”
When: Mondays, 4 - 4:45 pm (start date Jan. 24/22)
Who: Local community members who wish to meet safely with their friends or are looking for opportunities to make new friends!
Why: To support existing community connections and promote new ones
What you’ll need to participate: Nothing ... other than just be yourself and have fun!
These programs are accessible only via Zoom. If you’re interested in participating in one (or both), please contact me for the applicable Zoom link.
Jane
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Dec. 29/21: SOO "pauses" all in-person programs
Earlier this evening our SOO community received notice that SOO is “pausing” all in-person programming until (at least) January 31/22.
SOO’s decision was made in response to the recent and rapid rise in new COVID-19 cases and is intended to reduce opportunities for the virus to spread.
As such, the return of our bowling, swimming and curling programs will now be delayed until at least the first week of February/22.
An e-mail notice to that effect will be sent directly to our bowling, swimming and curling athletes, caregivers and volunteers.
A notice has also posted to our community Facebook page (Special Olympics Ontario - Stratford & Area).
SOO will advise closer to the end of January as to whether all or some in-person programs will be permitted to re-start. As always, that decision will be made with the best interests and safety of all SOO participants and communities in mind.
We know that our athletes will be disappointed to receive this news, but we remain optimistic that we’ll be able to return to play at some point this season - when it’s safe to do so.
Take care and stay safe!
Jane
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To all of our SOO - Stratford & Area community athletes, families, caregivers, volunteers and supporters, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
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Dec. 17/21: 5 pin bowling session scheduled for Dec. 18/21 CANCELLED
With new COVID-19 case numbers rising rapidly in our area and public health authorities having recommended that everyone reduce their non-essential contacts, we’ve decided that it’s best to cancel our 5 pin bowling session scheduled for Dec. 18/21.
We’ll be keeping a careful eye on this situation throughout the upcoming holiday season and into the new year, and will advise as to a return date for bowling once we’ve made that decision.
In the meantime, please remember that this COVID-19 variant is spreading more easily and faster than was previously the case.
If you begin to experience COVID-19 symptoms, have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, have received notification through the COVID Alert app or have been instructed by public health to get tested, please self-isolate immediately and get tested as soon as possible.
Please note that, as per SOO’s “COVID-19 Response Plan", any program participant (athlete, volunteer, support/caregiver) returning a positive COVID-19 test result must report that to me within 24 hours of notification.
Should you have any questions, please let me know.
Wishing everyone a safe and Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!
Jane
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Dec. 15/21: IMPORTANT UPDATE ON COVID-19 VACCINATIONS
The Province of Ontario announced today that, starting Monday, December 20, 2021, individuals aged 18 years and over will be eligible to book their third COVID-19 (booster) dose if at least three months (84 days) have passed since their second dose.
Please note that Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is not yet accepting third dose appointments for those aged 18 to 49 years. Individuals in this age group must until December 20, 2021 to book an appointment with HPPH.
Additional appointments are being added daily and HPPH is updating information as quickly as possible.
Please see the HPPH web site (hpph.ca) for more information and to book a vaccination appointment.
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Oct. 21/21: Our 2021-2022 winter/spring sport registration is now CLOSED.
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Oct. 10/21: Reminder re our 2021-2022 winter/spring sport registration
Just a quick reminder that our 2021-2022 winter/spring sport registration opens this coming Tuesday (Oct. 12/21) and runs through until Oct. 20/21.
Registration is being done exclusively through the home page of our community web site (soostratford.com).
Please note that late registrations will not be accepted and that registrations are being processed in the order received.
Should you have any questions regarding sport registration, please feel free to contact me.
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
Jane
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Sept. 17/21: SOO - Stratford & Area 2021-2022 Winter/Spring Sport Registration
I’m pleased to announce that our SOO - Stratford & Area community will be proceeding with our 2021-2022 winter/spring sport registration from October 12-20/21, inclusive.
Registration will be done exclusively ON-LINE through our community web site. Please note that late registrations will NOT be accepted.
In addition to allowing us to formalize our 2021-2022 winter/spring rosters with SOO, completing our winter/spring sport registration will tell us how many athletes intend to participate this season which, in turn, will provide information on which sports we need to focus and how much volunteer support we'll require for each of those sports.
Please note that, in order to both comply with all provincial and local health regulations and manage numbers in our facilities, we may need to place registration limits on one or more of our winter/spring sports. As such, registrations will be processed in the order (date and time) received.
Returning athletes wishing to register for one (or more) of our 2021-2022 winter/spring sports will do so by clicking on the GREEN “2021-2022 Winter/Spring Sport Registration” button on the home page of our web site. Doing so will take them to the 2021-2022 Winter/Spring Sport Registration Form (into which they’ll enter and submit basic information (name, address, sport selection and so on)) AND SOO's Participation Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form.
Athletes who are new to our community will also complete the 2021-2022 Winter/Spring Sport Registration Form AND SOO's Participation Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form on-line. In addition, new athletes must contact me in order to complete their registration paperwork.
Please note that only athletes having submitted BOTH their 2021-2022 Winter/Spring Sport Registration Form and SOO’s Participation Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form (on-line) by October 20/21 will be permitted to participate in our 2021-2022 winter/spring sport programs.
Registration fees will not be collected until the first session of the season for each sport.
Since we’re unsure at this time exactly what our winter/spring sport programming will look like and when/whether we’ll be able to proceed, we’re asking everyone to remain flexible as to sport start and end dates, scheduling, formats (e.g., alternating weeks) and so on.
Other important information re our sport registration:
SOO strongly recommends that athletes/caregivers consult a healthcare provider and seek medical advice prior to returning to program activities and sport training.
In addition to the mandatory Registration Form and SOO Participation Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form, links to a number of other SOO documents have been included in our 2021-2022 winter/spring sport Registration Portal. Athletes/caregivers will be asked to review the documents in the list below prior to completing the Registration and Participation Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Forms:
SOO Return to Program (http://www.specialolympicsontario.com/return-to-program)
Athlete Checklist
Athlete Easy Language Guide
COVID-19 Response Plan
Parent Questions
SOO is using a “phased” return to sport. As such, athletes/caregivers are advised that not all sports may return at the same time or, in some cases, return at all this winter/spring season. Athletes/caregivers will be contacted once start dates and other details are finalized.
Important notes re participation in our community’s in-person sport programs:
Anyone who is not feeling well, is experiencing even mild COVID-19 symptoms or has been in contact with someone having tested positive for COVID-19 within the previous 14 days MUST NOT attend a sport session.
Every person attending a sport session will be required to pass a health check/attestation and provide contact information (required for contact tracing, as necessary).
All participating athletes, volunteers and essential support must sign and submit a “COVID-19 Declaration and Agreement Form” prior to their first session for each sport.
All volunteers and essential support who are interacting directly with the athletes must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (i.e., two vaccine doses + 14 days since their last dose).
Effective for the 2021-2022 winter/spring sport season, all athletes participating in in-person programs must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (i.e., two vaccine doses + 14 days since their last dose).
All participants must strive to maintain physical distancing (of 6’) at all times while at our sport venues (including entering and leaving the venue and lining up for attendance/health check/attestation).
SOO - Stratford & Area volunteers will have full authority to send a participant and/or caregiver home should he/she be unwell or show any symptoms upon arrival at a session.
Only those persons essential to an athlete’s participation will be permitted to access the venue.
In order to reduce the number of people in each sport cohort we request that our participating support agencies schedule the same support staff to attend each week, if possible.
Masks/face coverings must be worn by all participants at all times (except for the purposes of hydration, as instructed by an on-site volunteer, or as specifically stated in our community’s protocols for that sport).
Athletes must bring a personalized water bottle to each session.
Athletes are requested to bring personal hand sanitizer to each session.
One last thing: Athletes will be required to submit proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (including vaccination receipts) to SOO via an on-line Vaccine Declaration Form, the link to which will be provided once registration closes.
Vaccination receipts can be downloaded via: covid19.ontariohealth.ca. The Stratford Public Library staff is also helping people access their vaccination receipts, resize them and print them off - free of charge!
For athletes who do not yet have vaccination receipts, please make sure to print those as soon as possible so they can be submitted immediately upon receipt of the link to SOO’s Vaccine Declaration Form and can be presented at our sport facilities which require them for entry.
Should you have any questions about our on-line sport registration process, or anything else related to our community’s return to sport, please feel free to contact me.
Take care and stay safe!
Jane
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September 13, 2021: IMPORTANT COMMUNICATION ADVISORY FROM SOO Re COVID-19 VACCINE POLICY and GUIDELINES
On September 1st, the premier’s office announced that Ontarians will be required to provide proof of the COVID-19 vaccination to enter non-essential businesses.
This mandate will be in effect on September 22, 2021. To obtain further information about this announcement, please go to: https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1000779/ontario-to-require-proof-of-vaccination-in-select-settings
Special Olympics Ontario (SOO) had already taken the initial step in mandating COVID-19 vaccinations for all volunteers and coaches returning to in person coaching.
This announcement will now require SOO athletes to provide proof of vaccination to attend in person sport training sessions and events.
Although the provincial government mandate focuses on indoor facilities, it will be mandatory for all SOO athletes, coaches, and volunteers to provide proof of vaccination for all indoor and outdoor community based sport programs and events. School based programs and Partner Programs will continue to follow the COVID-19 protocols outlined by their respective school boards / PSO’s.
All participants (athletes, coaches and volunteers) involved in SOO community programming will be required to be fully vaccinated (2 doses plus 14 days after the second dose) and submit proof of vaccination through the Return to Program (RTP) system. Those with medical exemptions and those who are under the age of 12 will be exempt; however, those that require a medical exemption will need to provide documentation from their health care provider.
As an organization, we will be expanding our Vaccine Declaration process to monitor vaccination status in coaches, volunteers and athletes. The provincial mandate takes effect September 22nd. We will be asking athletes to provide proof of vaccination immediately in preparation for the September 22nd effective date. As this is a provincially mandated requirement, facility management will have the final say as to who is eligible to enter their facility. SOO will continue to work with facility management in the many venues across the province to ensure an easy transition for the implementation of this mandate.
SOO remains focused on the health and safety of all our members and we will continue to provide support to our athletes regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. If you require further information about the COVID-19 vaccine, please visit: https://vaccinesupport.ca.
We are pleased that our sport programs and events are moving forward in the Return to Program plan. We will continue to focus our time and energy in getting our athletes back to the bowling lanes, back in the pool and back in the gyms. Please visit the Return to Program website to seek further information on how to make that happen.
Anyone requiring further support to get fully immunized and/or how to secure your vaccine passport may reach out directly.
Stay informed by going to our website www.specialolympicsontario.com for the latest updates.
Should you have any questions or would like to speak with a staff person about the pandemic please email covid19@specialolympicsontario.com or call 1-888-333-5515 ext. 311 and leave a message and we will follow up.
Thank you for understanding,
Glenn MacDonell
President & CEO
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Sept. 13/21: Softball C cancelled tonight (weather).
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Sept. 7/21: Soccer CANCELLED tonight (severe thunderstorm watch).
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Sept. 2/21: Track & field CANCELLED tonight.
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Aug. 26/21: Golf and Track & Field CANCELLED tonight (extreme heat and humidity).
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Aug. 24/21: Soccer CANCELLED tonight (high heat and humidity).
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Aug. 12/21: Track & field CANCELLED tonight (forecast for high heat and humidity).
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Aug. 10/21: Soccer CANCELLED tonight (heat and weather alerts in effect).
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Aug. 9/21: Softball C & D CANCELLED tonight (excessive heat & humidity).
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July 12/21: IMPORTANT UPDATE FROM SOO - STRATFORD & AREA Re OUR 2021 SUMMER SPORT SEASON
We’re VERY pleased to announce that SOO - Stratford & Area is planning to start our 2021 summer sport season on July 19/21!
Seems like such a long time ago that we were able to get together in person with our SOO - Stratford & Area family - and we’re SO looking forward to it!
Providing the weather cooperates, our two softball programs will kick off our 2021 summer sport season on Monday, July 19/21. Soccer (July 20) and track & field and golf (July 22) will follow.
Athletes, caregivers and volunteers will receive an e-mail today with more detailed information for review prior to attending their first session.
Please keep in mind that, in order for us to offer our in-person programs, we will have some specific and very important “rules” (around COVID-19) in place that EVERYONE will need to follow. We ask that everyone be understanding of those “rules”, do their best to follow them at all times and be patient with their fellow athletes and our volunteers as we work through this return to in-person programming together.
Looking forward to seeing everyone’s smiling face (or at least their smiling eyes!) at some point next week!
Jane
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June 30/21: IMPORTANT COMMUNICATION ADVISORY FROM SOO Re COVID-19 VACCINE POLICY and GUIDELINES
We are entering a period of uncertainty as we begin to open up programs and services. Every organization is subject to the same realities and must take reasonable steps to protect the health and safety of its members.
Special Olympics Ontario (SOO) have a number of factors to consider based on WHO and HOW we service our constituents, the degree of risk, the diverse make-up of our sports and other offerings and the volunteer nature by which these services are delivered.
Return to Sport:
SOO will be working with our volunteers, other sport bodies and local health units to open programs on a regional basis. In deciding when and how to open programs, SOO will comply with provincial reopening legislation. The province has moved away from the regional colour coded system and is now using health metrics and provincial vaccination status to guide reopening on a province-wide basis. Irrespective of the health metrics or vaccination status of particular regions, the guidance and approval to open a SOO program MUST be done through the provincial office. https://www1.specialolympicsontario.com/return-to-program
Health & Safety Measures:
The duty of SOO is to take reasonable steps to protect the health and safety of its employees, volunteers and the athletes while participating in SOO programs. SOO has established health and safety protocols aimed at keeping everyone safe.
All programs must follow the COVID-19 safety protocols that have been established for each sport. These measures can only be adjusted by the provincial office. Decisions to adjust SOO health and safety protocols will be made considering, among other things, evolving public health guidelines and provincial legislation.
Any adaptions to SOO’s health and safety protocols (which may be sport specific) must be approved by the provincial office as part of SOO return to sport/program procedures (via a sport reopening application).
Athletes:
The personal safety of our participants is a priority for SOO. Every athlete must be a registered member and have updated their status before engaging in program activities. As part of this process, we (SOO) will ask the individual to voluntarily disclose their vaccination status. However, participants who decline to provide this information will be permitted to be registered members of SOO and participate in SOO programs (subject to any legislative, public health and/or external requirements).
SOO’s health and safety protocols are the same for all athletes but the protocols may be modified for certain sports based on applicable public health guidelines and/or provincial legislation. We anticipate that our health and safety protocols will evolve over time as public health guidelines change. SOO will provide regular and updated guidelines to our programs.
Every effort will be made to reasonably accommodate athletes who may require program modifications to allow for participation.
Having had a vaccine is not mandatory for local program participation for athletes but may be a standard set for other forms of competition, such as traveling teams to major games and this is yet to be determined.
Volunteers:
SOO will take reasonable steps to protect the health and safety of our volunteers while they are participating in SOO programs. Every volunteer must be a registered member and must have updated their status before engaging in program activities. As part of this process, we (SOO) will ask the individual to voluntarily disclose their vaccination status (and, in the case of coaches, provide proof of vaccination).
All volunteers who intend to return to in person coaching must provide proof of vaccination. Given the level of contact between coaches and athletes (many of whom are at high risk of developing severe adverse reactions to COVID-19), volunteers who are not vaccinated (or choose not to disclose their vaccination status as part of the status update process described above) are not permitted to return to in person coaching, but may volunteer in roles that do not require vaccination (administration, virtual coaching, etc.).
These conditions may evolve over time, as public health guidelines change.
Please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions page for more information by clicking here.
Thank you for understanding,
Glenn MacDonell
SOO President & CEO
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June 9/21: IMPORTANT COMMUNICATION ADVISORY FROM SOO Re ENTERING STEP 1 OF ONTARIO’S REOPENING PLAN
The premier’s office has announced that Ontario will enter into Step 1 of the new Reopening Plan effective Friday, June 11th, 2021.
Information about the Reopening Plan can be found here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/reopening-ontario
At this time, all Special Olympics Ontario’s in-person programming will remain on a temporary hold.
We are consulting various agencies to seek input on the impact of vaccinations as it would apply to our membership and re-starting in-person programs.
We want to ensure that when our programs return to in-person again we will be in a position to provide a safe and healthy environment for everyone to enjoy.
In the meantime, if you require further information about the COVID-19 vaccine please visit https://vaccinesupport.ca/
While we are very encouraged by the progression, there’s a significant amount of work that needs to happen to get sport mobile. Our health and safety protocols, as well as our alignment with generic sport, will take time but we’re moving in the right direction. We anticipate an evolving process with many changes along the way.
Please stay informed by going to our website www.specialolympicsontario.com for the latest updates.
Thank you for understanding,
Glenn MacDonell
SOO President & CEO
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June 8/21: Announcing our virtual Canada Day Dance Party!!!
SOO - Stratford and SOO - London will be co-hosting a virtual Canada Day-themed Dance Party on July 2/21 (7 - 8:30 pm) with local celebrity “DJ Schaik It Up”!
Pre-registration is required via: https://us02web.zoom.us/.../tZIodeigrzoiG9CXaLehZJ2VMK7Yj...
Once you register you’ll receive a confirmation e-mail with details on how to join the dance. Make sure you keep that e-mail as it’s your “ticket” to the party!
And if you have a favourite tune you’d like DJ Schaik It Up to include on his playlist, please e-mail your request in advance to: djschaikitup@gmail.com.
Looking forward to seeing everyone in their best red and white Canada Day apparel. There might just be a prize for the best costume!
Jane
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May 28/21: SOO - Stratford & Area “Return to Program” update
On May 20/21, the Ontario government released its “Roadmap to Reopen”, a new three-step plan based primarily on province-wide vaccination rates and key public health and health care indicators intended to guide the safe reopening of the province and gradual lifting of public health measures.
Special Olympics Ontario’s (SOO’s) Return to Program team is working hard to understand the implications of this new plan and to implement a system of their own that will ensure, to the best of their ability, the safety of all those participating in their in-person programs.
SOO has advised that they expect to be able to provide their communities with updated in-person program protocols prior to the anticipated June 14/21 start of Step 1 of the “Roadmap to Reopen”.
Unfortunately, until such time as our community receives SOO’s updated protocols and is able to adjust our Return to Program plans accordingly, all of our in-person programming remains “on hold”.
Please continue to check both here and on our community Facebook page (Special Olympics Ontario - Stratford & Area) for further updates as they become available.
As we move toward Step 1 of this new reopening plan, please continue to do your part to keep yourself and others safe and healthy by following all public health guidelines.
Jane
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May 13/21: NEW SOO COVID-19 Vaccine Information and Booking Website!
Special Olympics Ontario (SOO) has created a website to assist people with Intellectual Disabilities who are having difficulty booking their first COVID-19 vaccine appointment.
The web site address is: vaccinesupport.ca
Those without reliable internet access may call 1-888-333-5515 ext. 329.
Any questions, please let me know!
Jane
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May 3/21: 2021 (Ontario) VIRTUAL LAW ENFORCEMENT TORCH RUN
The 2021 (Ontario) Virtual Law Enforcement Torch Run (May 3 - June 5/21) has begun!!!
In September of 2020, Torch Runners and Special Olympics supporters all over Ontario took to the streets, sidewalks, trails, water and whatever other surface could be found to support the athletes of Special Olympics Ontario virtually!
Not only did this virtual Torch Run result in an impressive fundraising effort, it also brought increased awareness to the Special Olympics movement across the province!
SOO’s Torch Run team is very pleased to announce that for 2021, and in celebration of 34 years of the Torch Run in Ontario, they will be hosting a 34-day Virtual Law EnforcementTorch Run (May 3 - June 5/21).
The challenge - to those who choose to accept it! - is to run, walk, ride, roll (or whatever you choose to do) at least 34 km over the 34-day Virtual Torch Run.
Participants are also encouraged to share photos or videos of their activities on social media (tagging the Ontario Virtual Torch Run account (@TorchRunOntario and using the hashtags #OVTR & #TorchRunON).
For those wishing to purchase a 2021 Torch Run Ontario t-shirt ($20), I’ll be taking orders until May 15/21 (via dicknjane@rogers.com).
When placing your order, please remember to include your size (XS - 3XL). Payment will be due on delivery.
Any questions, please let me know!
Jane
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April 26/21: IMPORTANT UPDATE ON COVID-19 VACCINATIONS IN HURON-PERTH (HPPH)
As of TODAY, the following newly-eligible groups are now able to book vaccination appointments through the HPPH vaccination booking system:
Individuals age 60 or older (born 1961 or earlier)
Adults 16 and older with the following High-Risk health conditions:
Obesity (BMI >40)
For more information on BMI visit Health Canada’swebpage
Please note: specifying your exact BMI is not necessary (when registering, or when at the clinic) and there is no need to get a physician’s note.
Other treatments causing immunosuppression (e.g., chemotherapy, immunity-weakening medications)
Individuals should speak to their treating provider to determine the most appropriate timing for administration of the first dose of vaccine.
Intellectual or developmental disabilities (e.g. Down Syndrome)
This includes individuals who require regular and sustained assistance with personal care and/or activities of daily living. At this time, individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are not eligible.
One (1) primary essential caregiver for Highest-Risk and certain High-Risk health conditions
Primary essential caregivers are included for individuals in the High-Risk Health Conditions group who require regular and sustained assistance with personal care and/or activities of daily living.
Once available, appointments may be booked either through the HPPH web site (HPPH.ca) or by calling 1-833-753-2098.
Questions should be directed to the HPPH (1-888-221-2133).
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April 19/21: Update from SOO re Covid-19 Vaccinations
SOO understands that there are many questions regarding access to vaccines for people with Intellectual Disabilities.
People with intellectual disabilities are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine as part of Phase 2 in Ontario’s vaccine rollout as they are considered “high risk” under the category of “individuals with health conditions”.
Community-based Public Health Units, which have been tasked with vaccine roll out, are at different stages of this process across the province.
SOO encourages all members to check their local Public Health Unit’s page frequently as vaccine eligibility is updated on an ongoing basis.
People with intellectual disabilities may be listed on the eligibility list using various terms including but not limited to:
· Intellectual or developmental disabilities (e.g., Down syndrome)
· Individuals with high-risk chronic conditions
· Individuals with chronic health conditions
· Adults with developmental disability
· High-risk individuals
· High-risk health conditions
Please note that our SOO - Stratford & Area community falls within Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH).
Athletes/caregivers are encouraged to check the “COVID-19 Vaccine” section of the HPPH web site (hpph.ca) frequently for ongoing updates on vaccine availability and to book vaccination appointments. Vaccinations may also be booked by calling 1-833-753-2098.
For additional updates from SOO regarding the COVID-19 vaccine please visit: https://soontar.io/covid_resources
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April 12/21: SOO - Stratford & Area 2021 Summer Sport Registration
Just a reminder that our community will be proceeding with our 2021 summer sport registration from April 19 - 26/21, inclusive.
Please note that late registrations will not be accepted.
Registration will be done exclusively ON-LINE through our community web site.
In addition to allowing us to formalize our 2021 summer sport rosters with SOO, completing our summer sport registration will tell us how many athletes intend to participate this season which, in turn, will tell us on which sports we need to focus and how much volunteer support we'll require for each of those sports.
Returning athletes wishing to register for one (or more) of our 2021 summer sports will do so by clicking on the GREEN “2021 Summer Sport Registration” button on the home page of our web site. Doing so will take them to the 2021 Summer Sport Registration Form (into which they’ll enter and submit basic information (name, address, sport selection and so on)) AND SOO's Participation Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form.
Athletes who are new to our community will also complete the 2021 Summer Sport Registration Form AND SOO's Participation Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form on-line. In addition, new athletes must contact me in order to complete their registration paperwork.
Please note that only athletes for whom BOTH their 2021 Summer Sport Registration Form and SOO’s Participation Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form have been received by April 26/21 will be registered for and permitted to participate in our 2021 summer sport programs.
Registration fees will not be collected until the first session of the season for each sport.
Since we’re unsure at this time exactly what our summer sport programming will look like and when/whether we’ll be able to proceed, we’re asking everyone to remain flexible as to sport start and end dates, scheduling, formats and so on.
Other important information re our sport registration:
SOO strongly recommends that athletes/caregivers consult a healthcare provider and seek medical advice prior to returning to program activities and sport training.
In addition to the mandatory Registration Form and SOO Participation Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form, links to a number of other SOO documents have been included in our 2021 summer sport Registration Portal. Athletes/caregivers will be asked to review the documents in the list below prior to completing the Registration and Participation Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Forms:
SOO Return to Program (http://www.specialolympicsontario.com/return-to-program)
Athlete Checklist
Athlete Easy Language Guide
COVID-19 Response Plan
Parent Questions
SOO is using a “phased” return to sport. As such, athletes/caregivers are advised that not all sports may return at the same time or, in some cases, return at all this summer. Athletes/caregivers will be contacted once start dates and other details are finalized.
Once our community is able to return to in-person sport:
Anyone who is not feeling well, is experiencing even mild COVID-19 symptoms or has been in contact with someone having tested positive for COVID-19 within the previous 14 days MUST NOT attend a sport session.
Every person attending a sport session will be required to pass a health check/attestation and provide contact information (required for contact tracing, as necessary).
All participating athletes, volunteers and support staff/family members must sign a “COVID-19 Declaration and Agreement Form” prior to their first session for each sport.
All participants must strive to maintain physical distancing (of 6’) at all times while at our sport venues (including entering and leaving the venue and lining up for attendance/health check/attestation).
SOO - Stratford & Area volunteers will have full authority to send a participant and/or caregiver home should he/she be unwell or show any symptoms upon arrival at a session.
Only those persons essential to an athlete’s participation will be permitted to access the venue.
In order to reduce the number of people in each sport cohort we request that our participating support agencies schedule the same support staff to attend each week, if possible.
Masks/face coverings must be worn by all participants at all times (except for the purposes of hydration).
Athletes must bring a personal water bottle to each session.
Athletes are requested to bring personal hand sanitizer to each session.
Should you have any questions about our on-line sport registration process, or anything else related to our community’s return to sport, please feel free to contact me.
Take care and stay safe!
Jane
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April 1 - 15/21: Sobeys Fundraising Campaign for Special Olympics
From April 1 to 15/21, Sobeys aims to raise $1 million in support of Special Olympics athletes across Canada through their “at-the-till” fundraising campaign.
To participate, just say “YES” to donating $2 at the check out of your local Sobeys or Foodland - including our Stratford Sobeys and Foodland stores, both of which are proud supporters of our local athletes and programs!
SOO - Stratford & Area thanks you for supporting Special Olympics athletes from coast to coast to coast!
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March 24/21: Important SOO - Stratford & Area Community Update
Below is a brief update on plans for our SOO - Stratford & Area community over the next few months.
Please note that a more detailed version of this update was sent directly to our athletes, caregivers and volunteers today.
Athlete Banquet
Because many of the same concerns that forced the cancellation of our 2020 Athlete Banquet still exist in our community, and given that our primary focus remains the health and well-being of all of our community members, SOO - Stratford & Area’s Executive Committee has made the difficult decision to postpone our community’s next Athlete Banquet until May 28/22. We remain optimistic that by the time our chosen 2022 date rolls around COVID-19 will be in sufficient “check” to allow us to gather together safely.
2021 Summer Sport Registration
With the arrival of the warmer weather and given that we’re entering a sport season in which all of our regular programming is held outdoors, we’re pleased to announce that we're planning to move forward with our 2021 summer sport registration. Registration will be open from April 19/21 to April 26/21 and will take place exclusively on-line via our web site (soostratford.com).
Further details will be made available closer to the opening of registration.
SOO - Stratford & Area Facebook Page
Since the launch of our community Facebook page last summer we’ve been using that platform to push out activity, program and other information, including virtual/remote opportunities, which we feel may be of interest to our community athletes, caregivers, volunteers and other supporters.
If you’re a Facebook user but have yet to “Like” our community Facebook page, please do so as soon as possible so that you (and/or the athlete(s) you support) won’t miss out on the many virtual engagement opportunities and other information being posted there.
Please stay tuned to this page, our community Facebook page and future e-mail communication for further updates.
And should you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Cheers!
Jane
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From all of us at SOO - Stratford & Area, wishing our athletes, caregivers, volunteers and supporters a very Merry Christmas and all the best for a safe and enjoyable New Year!
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December 15/20: Update on SOO - Stratford & Area “Return to Program”
Below is a brief update on the status of our SOO - Stratford & Area 2020-2021 winter/spring and 2021 summer sport seasons.
Please note that a more detailed communication will be sent by e-mail to all of our community members today.
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Unfortunately, COVID-19 continues to pose a significant risk to the health and well-being of our local community.
In response, Public Health officials province-wide are reminding everyone of the risks associated with close-contact gatherings, especially those in enclosed/indoor spaces. They are also strongly recommending that everyone limit their close contacts to those in their household/essential supports.
In addition to the above, our community remains without “homes” for four of our five winter/spring sports, a situation which we predict will extend well into the new year.
Taking into account these factors, and with the health and safety of all of our community members continuing to be our focus, our SOO - Stratford & Area Executive Committee has made the difficult decision to cancel our 2020-2021 in-person winter/spring sport programming.
We remain optimistic that the situation around COVID-19 will improve sufficiently to allow us to proceed with our 2021 summer sport season.
As such, we’ll be proceeding with our 2021 summer sport registration from April 13-21/21.
As was the case for both our 2020 summer and 2020-2021 winter/spring sport registrations, our 2021 summer sport registration will be done entirely on-line through our community web site (soostratford.com). Stay tuned for more details closer to that time.
In the meantime, we’re hopeful to be able to provide our athletes and volunteers with a number of virtual/remote opportunities in the new year.
If you or someone you support is interested in participating in virtual/remote activities, please let us know by either sending an e-mail to Jane (dicknjane@rogers.com) or participating in the “poll” posted Dec. 12/20 to our community Facebook page (Special Olympics Ontario - Stratford & Area). For those who are interested, please confirm that with us by Dec. 31/20.
On behalf of our Executive Committee, please know that we miss you and look forward to the time when we can all gather together safely.
Until then ...
Take care and stay safe!
Jane
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Dec. 12/20: Virtual/remote programming poll
SOO - Stratford & Area athletes, caregivers and volunteers - we need your help!
Are you or an athlete you support interested in participating in virtual/remote sessions with other Special Olympics athletes and/or volunteers?
If so, please send me an e-mail including your name and kind of activity you’d like us to offer (e.g., sport, fitness, “social”, other (please specify)).
Please note that whether we proceed with virtual/remote sessions will depend on responses.
So, if you’re interested, please let me know by December 31/20.
Look forward to hearing from you!
Jane (dicknjane@rogers.com)
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October 26/20: SOO - Stratford & Area winter/spring “Return to Program” update
With pandemic-related restrictions continuing to affect our community’s ability to secure facilities for our sports and the number of new COVID-19 cases continuing to rise in many areas of the province, our SOO - Stratford & Area Executive Committee has made the decision to delay the start of our 2020-2021 winter/spring sport season until at least January 2021.
We’ll advise on Dec. 15/20 as to whether we plan to proceed with in-person programming this season.
In the interim, we’ll continue to carefully monitor our local health situation as well as the ongoing guidance and directives of both Public Health and SOO.
As always, the well-being of everyone involved will remain our priority and will continue to drive our decision-making.
Please continue to refer to this page and to our community Facebook page (Special Olympics Ontario - Stratford & Area) for other updates and information.
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October 21/20: “LAST CALL” for 2020-2021 winter/spring sport registrations!!!
An important reminder that today is the final day to register for our SOO - Stratford & Area winter/spring sports.
Athletes wishing to register for one (or more) of our winter/spring sports may do so by clicking on the GREEN “2020-2021 Winter/Spring Sport Registration” button. Doing so will take them to a Registration Form AND SOO’s Participation Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form. Both of these forms must be completed in full and submitted on-line in order for the athlete’s sport registration to be processed.
In addition to the above, athletes who are new to our community must contact Jane (dicknjane@rogers.com) in order to complete their SOO registration paperwork.
Please note that only athletes having submitted BOTH their Registration Form AND Waiver/Media Opt-Out Form will be registered for and permitted to participate in our 2020-2021 winter/spring sport programs.
Registration fees will not be collected until the first session of the season for each sport.
For further information, please refer to previous updates posted below or contact Jane (dicknjane@rogers.com).
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October 12/20: 2020-2021 Winter/Spring Sport Registration (Oct. 13-21/20)
A reminder that our 2020-2021 Winter/Spring Sport Registration opens tomorrow (Oct. 13/20). Registration closes on Oct. 21/20.
On-line registration can be completed using any electronic device (i.e., phone, iPad, laptop, desktop).
The link to the registration form is accessed via the GREEN “2020-2021 Winter/Spring Sport Registration” button on the home page of our web site.
Clicking that button will take the user to both a Registration Form AND SOO’s Participation WAIVER and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form.
Returning athletes wishing to participate in one (or more) of our 2020-2021 winter/spring sport programs must register for same by completing and submitting BOTH their on-line Registration Form AND their on-line Waiver. Both of these forms must be completed in full and submitted on-line no later than Oct. 21/20.
Please note that only athletes duly registered in our programs will be permitted to participate.
New athletes wishing to participate in one (or more) of our 2020-2021 winter/spring sport programs are requested to complete and submit their on-line Registration Form and their on-line Waiver Form, then contact Jane (our Data Administrator) in order to complete their registration paperwork. Both the Registration and Wavier Forms must be completed in full and submitted on-line no later than Oct. 21/20. Please note that new athletes will NOT be added to programs without being duly registered with both SOO and SOO - Stratford & Area through Jane.
Unlike our in-person sessions, registration fees will not be collected until the first session of the season for that sport.
Questions regarding our on-line registration process should be directed to Jane (519-271-1422 or dicknjane@rogers.com).
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October 5/20: 2020-2021 Winter/Spring Sport Registration
A reminder that our SOO - Stratford & Area 2020-2021 Winter/Spring Sport Registration will be taking place on-line from Oct. 13-21/20 via the link on the home page of our community web site (soostratford.com).
Athletes wishing to register for one (or more) of our winter/spring sports will do so by clicking on the GREEN “2020-2021 Winter/Spring Sport Registration” button. Doing so will take them to a Registration Form AND SOO’s Participation Waiver and Promotional Media Opt-Out Form. Both of these forms must be completed in full and submitted on-line no later than Oct. 21/20.
In addition to the above, athletes who are new to our community must contact Jane (dicknjane@rogers.com) in order to complete their registration paperwork.
Please note that only athletes having submitted BOTH their Registration Form AND Waiver/Media Opt-Out Form by Oct. 21/20 will be registered for and permitted to participate in our 2020-2021 winter/spring sport programs.
Registration fees will not be collected until the first session of the season for each sport.
For further information, please refer to previous updates posted below or contact Jane (dicknjane@rogers.com).
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September 9, 2020
SOO COMMUNICATION ADVISORY - PROVINCIAL GAMES
In conjunction with Special Olympics Canada and Chapters across the country, the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games Medicine Hat 2022 have been cancelled. While this outcome brings about disappointment for many, most assuredly the athletes, it is the correct decision for the times.
In part, this conclusion was reached by all Provincial/Territorial Chapters who cannot foresee the ability to host safe and successful Provincial/Territorial Games in 2021. In discussion with health officials, sponsors and volunteers, the embargo on programming and fundraising has set us back in all areas.
Our focus now, and for the foreseeable future, will be activating the athletes and getting our programs operational in a manner that is safe and secure for everyone. Programs are beginning to open slowly but are completely focused on the engagement of athletes and skill development.
As Special Olympics Canada stated in their release, our emphasis will be grassroots programming and support. In the weeks ahead you will be receiving information that describes how Ontario plans to showcase this local focus.
Future qualifiers and provincial level competitions will be placed on hold until the pandemic lifts and confidence is restored. Our plans will adjust accordingly, taking us from where we are today and leading us back to a better future.
We are all very saddened by this news but recognize that we need to work together with others to determine and focus on the critical priorities at hand. At this stage that is the health and wellness of our families, friends and the community at large.
Click here to read the answers to some frequently asked questions.
Click here to read the announcement from Special Olympics Canada.
Stay safe everyone!
Thank you for your understanding,
Glenn MacDonell
President & CEO
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September 5/20: SOO - Stratford & Area Community “Return to Sport” update
Given SOO’s most recent “Return to Program” update (August 31/20, below), the following is intended to provide all of our SOO - Stratford & Area community members with a brief update on the status of our local “return to sport” plans.
Unfortunately, pandemic-related restrictions have left our community without host venues for two of our winter/spring sports and uncertain as to whether other facilities we normally use will be able to accommodate us this coming season.
We also remain uncertain as to how “return to school” and a predicted fall/winter resurgence of the virus will affect the number of local COVID-19 cases.
Although these issues (and others related to COVID-19) continue to pose significant challenges to our community’s ability to offer our regular programming, we remain hopeful that we’ll be able to safely start one of more of our winter/spring sports at some point this season.
With that in mind, we’ll be proceeding with our 2020-2021 winter/spring sport registration on-line via our web site (soostratford.com).
In addition to allowing us to formalize our sport program enrolments with SOO, completing our winter/spring sport registration will tell us how many athletes intend to participate and how much volunteer support we require for each sport.
Registration will be open from Oct. 13-21/20, inclusive.
Athletes and caregivers will be able to access our registration page beginning Oct. 13/20 by clicking on the GREEN “2020-2021 Winter/Spring Sport Registration” button on the home page of our web site (soostratford.com).
Unlike our in-person registration sessions, registration fees will not be collected until the first session of the season for that sport.
Please note that only athletes for whom ALL registration documents are received by Oct. 21/20 (including all required COVID-19 documents) will be registered for and permitted to participate in our 2020-2021 winter/spring sport programs.
Other notes:
Given that SOO is taking a “degree of risk” approach to their “Return to Program” it’s possible that SOO may not permit all of our sport programs to proceed, and that those sport programs which are permitted to proceed may start at different times.
Because our community is required to comply with all Provincial directives (e.g., maximum indoor gathering size), schedules for those sports which are permitted to proceed may require some adjustments (e.g., alternating weeks) in order to accommodate all registrants.
We’ll continue to do our best to keep all of our community members “in the loop” via posts to both the “News Flash” page of our web site (soostratford.com) and our Facebook page (Special Olympics Ontario - Stratford & Area), as well as by e-mail.
While you await the opening of our winter/spring sport registration process, please take a few minutes to look through the information included in SOO’s “Return to Program” Hub (www.specialolympicsontario.com/return-to-program).
Should you have any questions or concerns regarding our community’s “return to sport” or about our Special Olympics community, please feel free to contact me.
Take care and stay safe!
Jane
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September 1/20: Larry Hitchcock receives 2020 SOO “Coach of the Year” award
And under the heading of very good news …
For those of you who read through SOO’s full Aug. 24/20 “Healthy@Home Newsletter” (shared to our community Facebook page (Special Olympics Ontario - Stratford & Area)) you may have noticed a section on "2020 Award Recipients".
One of the names included there was that of our very own Larry Hitchcock, one of three “Coach of the Year” award winners for 2020!
On behalf of SOO - Stratford & Area, we congratulate Larry on his award selection and thank him for his dedication and many contributions to our SO community!
Congratulations, Larry, on this well-deserved award!
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August 31/20
COMMUNICATION UPDATE FROM SOO Re “RETURN TO PROGRAM”
Attention: Special Olympics Ontario Communities, Clubs, Volunteers, Athletes, Partners, Associates and Families
During the month of August, Special Olympics Ontario (SOO) moved forward with our plan to carefully open up programs, which included staged sport openings for limited activities such as golf. Return to Program www.specialolympicsontario.com/return-to-program was launched July 25th providing the information, process and procedures for communities, teams, programs, volunteers, athletes and families to understand the process and provide feedback.
While health regulations are easing across the province, opening sport in a safe, secure and organized manner continues to be a challenge. We (SOO) have received and have made a number of alterations to the process but feedback remains cautious and deliberate, which is standard across the province.
Our plans will mirror this approach and we will work with communities and schools on the method that works best for them as they move into the orange stage of Return to Program. It seems likely that a hybrid model will be the approach of choice where some athlete/coach interaction will be supplemented by virtual platforms. That said, it will be an individual choice to participate or not.
While programs may begin to look at opening, the process to do so must still be followed.
Fundraising activities may be planned and approved by submitting a request to the provincial office through the Return to Program Hub. Health protocols must be followed and athlete participation must be approved and may be conditional based on risk concerns and/or liability reasons.
There are a number of virtual LETR and motionball events happening during the month of September providing a great way to involve our athletes and communities.
As usual, we will continue to monitor and evaluate the status of this pandemic on a month to month basis and we will advise you of any further information as it becomes available.
Please stay informed by going to our website www.specialolympicsontario.com for the latest updates.
Stay safe everyone!
Thanks for your understanding,
Glenn MacDonell
President & CEO
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August 28/20
A reminder that the deadline for ordering 2020 Law Enforcement Torch Run t-shirts is Aug. 30/20.
Order by e-mail at: dicknjane@rogers.com. Please be sure to include your size with your order (unisex sizing XS - 3XL).
Payment due on delivery (local orders only).
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July 29/20
Important SOO - Stratford & Area Community Update: 2020 Summer Sports
As everyone is aware, COVID-19 has impacted almost every aspect of how all of us have become accustomed to going about our daily lives. Special Olympics has not been spared from the impact of COVID-19, with SOO suspending all Special Olympics activities beginning March 13/20.
As noted in SOO’s most recent update (below), all Special Olympics sport programming, competitions and related activities remain under SOO suspension until Sept. 1/20.
During this time, SOO (and our community) will continue to work on participant-centred “Return To Program” plans and sport-specific protocols designed to keep ALL of our athletes, coaches, volunteers, caregivers and families safe.
Developing an effective “Return to Program” approach is a huge responsibility, not only for SOO but for all of their member communities - including ours.
With this in mind, SOO - Stratford & Area will be taking whatever time we feel is necessary to develop and implement our “Return to Program” plans and protocols developed with the specific needs of our registrants and our community in mind.
Given that it’s going to take some time for us to develop and put these protocols in place, and with the best interests of ALL of our community members in mind, our SOO - Stratford & Area Executive Committee has made the decision to cancel all of our 2020 summer sport programming, effective immediately.
We understand that some of our community members may be disappointed that they will not be able to participate in their regular programming this summer. That being said, we’re also confident that, like us, everyone will understand that it is our responsibility, as community leaders, to focus our decision-making on what we believe are the best interests of everyone in our community.
Please know that we are working diligently to prepare for the return of our winter/spring sports should we receive permission from SOO to proceed with some or all of that programming.
Stay tuned for further information regarding our 2020-2021 ON-LINE WINTER/SPRING SPORT REGISTRATION as that becomes available.
In the meantime, please take a few minutes to review the information posted to SOO’s “Return to Program” Hub (www.specialolympicsontario.com/return-to-program) to see what getting back to Special Olympics activities will look like going forward.
And until we see each other in person, we encourage all of our community members to stay creative, stay positive and stay SAFE by continuing to do all of things that our health care professionals are encouraging us to do, including:
Staying at home and away from others if we’re feeling ill or have (even mild) symptoms of COVID-19;
Maintaining physical distancing of at least two metres (six feet) from people outside of our household or social circle;
Wearing a face covering in indoor and outdoor public spaces where required or where physical distancing is a challenge;
Washing our hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer; and,
Practising good hygiene (covering a cough and sneeze and avoiding touching our face).
On a positive note, on July 23/20 our community launched our first ever Facebook page (Special Olympics Ontario - Stratford & Area) to which updates and other community and SOO news will be posted. Please continue to check both there and here (on our community web site (soostratford.com)) for updates and information.
Take care and stay safe!
Jane
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July 23, 2020
Communication Advisory from Special Olympics Ontario
While health regulations are easing across the province, opening sport in a safe, secure and organized manner continues to be a challenge. Working in conjunction with Special Olympics Canada, Sport and provincial regulators, Special Olympics Ontario (SOO) is developing guidelines and protocols that need to be in place for any and all program activities that would take place in congregated settings.
During the month of August we (SOO) expect to get approval to move forward, which will include staged sport openings for limited activities such as golf. Each and every program, volunteer and athlete will be involved in the process; a very procedural approach. At the same time, we will be organizing orientation sessions to solicit feedback from volunteers, parents and athletes before any formal roll out.
Our plans for Return to Program will include the information, process and procedures for communities, teams, programs, volunteers, athletes and families will be available on our Return to Program Hub at www.specialolympicsontario.com/return-to-program.
While this is happening, Special Olympics Ontario is directing that all local sport programs, competitions and any related activities remain suspended until September 1, 2020.
Fundraising activities may be planned and approved by submitting a request to the provincial office through the Return to Program Hub. Health protocols must be followed and athlete participation may not be approved at this time for risk concerns and liability reasons. Email questions to Cody Jansma, Director Business Development at codyj@specialolympicsontario.com.
Special Olympics Ontario is working very closely with Special Olympics Canada and the other provincial and territorial chapters on finding the best way to navigate this challenging situation. It is imperative that certain guidelines and procedures require commonality across the country, always respecting the vulnerable population that we serve and their dedicated coaches and volunteers.
We will continue to monitor and evaluate the status of this pandemic on a month to month basis and we will advise you on or before August 31st our plans for the fall. Protecting the health and safety of everyone involved is the primary objective, while getting programs operational in some form. Please stay informed by going to our website www.specialolympicsontario.com for the latest updates.
Stay safe everyone!
Thank you for your understanding,
Glenn MacDonell
President & CEO
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SOO - Stratford & Area Update: Cancellation of our annual softball tournament
Given that we have not yet received permission from SOO to proceed with the sport of softball, and that Provincial restrictions limiting outdoor gatherings (to 100) are currently in place, we have made the decision to cancel our annual softball tournament (scheduled for Aug. 29/20).
We remain optimistic that we’ll be “back on track” by next summer and will again be able to host this annual event (tentatively scheduled for Aug. 28/21).
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URGENT: IMPORTANT NOTICE RE SUSPENSION OF ALL SPECIAL OLYMPICS ACTIVITIES (until July 31/20)
Update: June 17, 2020
Communication Advisory: COVID-19
Attention: Special Olympics Ontario Communities, Clubs, Volunteers, Athletes, Partners, Associates and Families.
In consultation with local and provincial health authorities and Special Olympics programs across Canada, Special Olympics Ontario is directing that all local sport programs, competitions, fundraisers and any related activities remain suspended until July 31, 2020.
We will continue to monitor and evaluate the status of this pandemic on a month to month basis and advise you on or before July 31st. While the province begins to open up services regionally, the obligation for safety, security, protocols and liability lies with the business or organization. Sport in general and Special Olympics specifically, has a duty of care beyond the normal scope of most organizations.
Special Olympics Ontario is working with Special Olympics Canada and all Chapters on finding the best way to navigate this challenging situation. For certain, guidelines and procedures need symmetry across the country, always respecting the population we serve and those who volunteer to do so.
Protecting the health and safety of everyone involved is the primary objective, while getting programs operational in some form. Stay informed by going to our website www.specialolympicsontario.com for the latest updates.
Should you have any questions or would like to speak with a staff person about the pandemic, please email covid19@specialolympicsontario.com or call 1-888-333-5515 ext. 311, leave a message and we will follow up.
Stay safe everyone!
Thank you for your understanding,
Glenn MacDonell
President & CEO
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May 23/20: 2020 SOO - Stratford & Area Athlete and Volunteer Banquet
We know that many of our community members were disappointed that we were unable to host our annual Athlete and Volunteer banquet today. Although not the same as “the real thing”, we’ve posted a summary of “what would have been” (or a “virtual banquet” summary, per se) to our “News” page. Please take a few minutes to check that out, in particular the section on this year’s sport award winners!
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May 20/20: SOO announces SOC’s "Walk The World With Me” Challenge
During the month of April the Coast to Coast Canada Walking Challenge was created. That challenge was designed to get our Special Olympics members out walking and to help them feel like part of the overall movement by giving us all a common goal of walking across the country together. It was a huge success that saw over 3000 entries of time walked submitted over a three week period.
Now we have our sights set on walking the WORLD!
In order to accomplish that goal, Special Olympics Canada (SOC) is inviting all of our SOO - Stratford & Area athletes, caregivers, volunteers and supporters to join athletes from around the world in a new global VIRTUAL activity challenge called “Walk The World With Me”.
The goal of this challenge is to walk around the world (virtually, of course!) through all 193 countries that have Special Olympics programs.
The “Walk The World With Me” challenge officially launches TODAY (May 22/20) as part of SOO’s virtual Healthy@Home programming.
EVERYONE is invited to join this walk and record their steps toward the goal of walking more than 170,000 km. The program is FREE to join.
Participation is easy: Just click on the WALK THE WORLD WITH ME link and enter your - or your TEAM’S - information.
Happy walking!
Jane
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May 15, 2020
IMPORTANT NOTICE Re: Opening Special Olympics Ontario Programs
Attention: Special Olympics Ontario Communities, Clubs, Volunteers, Athletes, Partners, Associates and Families.
As the Province of Ontario begins to open up services, I want to clarify what that means for Special Olympics programs in Ontario.
Special Olympics Ontario (SOO) programs will remain closed until June 30th or until you get a directive from the provincial office.
Every registered sports organization in Ontario must submit a plan to open up programs – which in our case would be 18 plans, plus any specialized programs like Active Start & Fundamentals.
We are in consultation with all our generic sport partners to align on the technical merits, then make adaptations as necessary.
Sports are being prioritized based upon many factors related to the current health regulations and the provincial government directives.
The provincial government has made it clear that they are focused on attempting to open the economy as their main priority, not develop or regulate sport and recreation. This will follow.
The responsibility and liability lies with the registered provincial sport body, in our case Special Olympics Ontario Inc.
As you can appreciate, guidelines are evolving and we are working with others to make recommendations and support the effort.
Everything we (SOO) do MUST safeguard the health and welfare of all our athletes and volunteers.
If you have questions or need further clarification please email covid19@specialolympicsontario.com or call 1-888-333-5515
Stay safe everyone!
Glenn MacDonell
President & CEO
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IMPORTANT REQUEST FROM SOO (May 5/20):
For those of you who have used any of SOO’s “Healthy at Home” resources over the last month (e.g., Connected/Active/Positive/Informed modules, Coast to Coast Challenge, Weekly Wellness Challenge, Boredom Busters and others), SOO would appreciate you taking a few minutes to complete a short survey at: https://forms.gle/XkewtkFBWkoQtcaA6
Your feedback is important as it will help SOO develop appropriate and effective resources and tools going forward.
Thank you, in advance, for completing this survey!
Jane
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URGENT: IMPORTANT NOTICE RE SUSPENSION OF ALL SPECIAL OLYMPICS ACTIVITIES (until June 30/20)
Update: April 28, 2020
Communication Advisory: COVID-19
Attention: Special Olympics Ontario Communities, Clubs, Volunteers, Athletes, Partners, Associates and Families
I hope everyone is doing well.
Firstly, I would like to begin by thanking all volunteers for your continued efforts in connecting with our athletes and families. We certainly recognize that you do this as your own personal lives have been turned upside down, just like everyone else.
Public health information locally and across Canada continues with a cautious and deliberate approach to our safety. In consultation with many of our local programs, Special Olympics Ontario is directing that all local sport programs, competitions, fundraisers and any related activities continue to be suspended until June 30, 2020.
We will continue to monitor and evaluate the status of this pandemic on a weekly basis and advise you on or before June 30th. Our priority, for now, is to stay focused on developing and supporting initiatives focused on keeping our athletes, volunteers and partners connected through this very difficult time.
For more information and updates, please visit the Special Olympics Ontario website www.specialolympicsontario.com
Should you have any questions or would like to speak with a staff person about the pandemic, please email covid19@specialolympicsontario.com or call 1-888-333-5515 ext. 311 to leave a voice message and we will follow up with you.
Stay safe everyone!
Thank you for your understanding,
Glenn MacDonell
President & CEO
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JOIN SPECIAL OLYMPICS CANADA’S 10-WEEK FUNCTIONAL WORKOUT PROGRAM ON FACEBOOK LIVE
Are you ready to get 1% better everyday?
Special Olympics Team Canada’s official Strength & Conditioning Coach, Steve Topham, is launching a 10-week functional workout program for Special Olympics athletes of all levels, their families, coaches and supporters!
Join him on Special Olympics Canada’s FACEBOOK LIVE every Tuesday and Thursday at 2 pm EDT and learn how to squat, lunge, push up, plank and jump your way to improving your athletic performance.
Mark your calendars: the first workout kicks off Tuesday April 28 at 2pm EDT!
For more information click here
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IMPORTANT NOTICE FROM SOO - STRATFORD & AREA
March 25, 2020
Given SOO’s directive of March 24/20 (below) that all Special Olympics activities province-wide remain under suspension until (at least) April 30/20, we’re announcing a number of changes to our scheduled programming:
5 pin: Because SOO’s April 30/20 review date falls after the end of our 5 pin season, the remainder of our 5 pin season is now cancelled. This includes our Stratford tournament (April 26/20) and our athletes’ participation in the London tournament (May 3/20), which has also been cancelled.
Athlete Banquet: SOO - Stratford & Area takes very seriously the safety and well-being of all of our community members. By now everyone is aware of the challenges posed to almost every area of our lives by the COVID-19 virus. In order to help stop the spread of this virus, Public Health officials have asked that everyone limit close contact with others as much as possible, something called “social distancing”. Because it is not possible to keep a safe distance between people when a large number gather in a relatively small space, our SOO - Stratford & Area Executive Committee has decided to cancel this year’s Athlete Banquet. Since we don’t know when it will be safe for us to gather together, we’ve also decided to not reschedule this event in 2020. We apologize to everyone who was looking forward to attending this annual celebration of the accomplishments of our athletes and volunteers. Please know that, although this decision was very difficult, we feel it was made with the best interests of all our community members in mind. On a positive note, we’ve already booked May 29/21 for next year’s Athlete Banquet. We look forward to gathering together and celebrating with our Special Olympics family at that time.
In-person summer sport registration sessions: Because our summer sport registration sessions were scheduled for April 16 and 18/20, which falls within SOO’s suspension period, we’ve cancelled those sessions.
In lieu of our usual in-person sport registration sessions, our web site developer will be adding a link to our community web site (soostratford.com) which will allow us to collect and process summer sport registrations on-line.
ON-LINE REGISTRATION WILL BE OPEN FROM APRIL 10 - 18/20, INCLUSIVE.
On-line registration can be completed using any electronic device (i.e., phone, iPad, laptop, desktop).
The link to the registration form is accessed via the GREEN “2020 Summer Sport Registration” button on our home page.
Clicking that button will take the user to a registration form into which they’ll enter basic information (name, address, sport selection, medical information, etc.).
Returning athletes wishing to participate in one (or more) of our 2020 summer sport programs must register for same by completing and submitting their on-line registration. Please note that only athletes duly registered in our programs will be permitted to participate.
New athletes wishing to participate in one (or more) of our 2020 summer sport programs are requested to complete and submit the on-line registration form, then contact Jane (our Data Administrator) in order to complete their registration paperwork. Please note that new athletes will NOT be added to programs without being duly registered with both SOO and SOO - Stratford & Area through Jane.
Unlike our in-person sessions, registration fees will not be collected until the first session of the season for that sport.
Questions regarding our on-line registration process should be directed to Jane (519-271-1422 or dicknjane@rogers.com).
To borrow from Special Olympics Ontario, “While we might not be able to get together at a practice, at school, competition or fundraiser - that doesn't mean that we can't continue on being the great connected and supportive community that we are. Special Olympics Ontario has been hard at work on a number of initiatives focused on keeping athletes, volunteers and partners engaged!”
Be sure to check out SOO’s web site (specialolympicsontario.com) for their “Healthy @ Home” newsletter which will help you:
Stay Connected: Tips, tricks and challenges to help you connect with your friends, coaches and Special Olympics Ontario while practicing social distancing;
Stay Active: Virtual activities and challenges you can do to stay active and fit from home;
Stay Positive: Tools and resources to help support the mental health of the Special Olympics Ontario community; and,
Stay Informed: Information to help you understand COVID-19 and help you stay safe.
Further local updates will continue to be posted to our SOO - Stratford & Area web site.
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URGENT: COVID-19
Update: March 24, 2020
Communication Advisory - COVID-19
Attention: Special Olympics Ontario Communities, Clubs, Volunteers, Athletes, Partners, Associates and Families
In consultation with local and provincial health authorities and Special Olympics programs across Canada, please be advised that Special Olympics Ontario is continuing its directive that all local sport programs, competitions, fundraisers and related activities continue to be suspended until April 30, 2020.
We will continue to monitor and evaluate the status of the pandemic on a month-to-month basis and advise you on or before April 30th regarding the future status of our programs.
Special Olympics Ontario staff are hard at work on a number of initiatives focused on keeping athletes, volunteers and partners active, connected, informed and positive through this very difficult time.
For more information and updates, please visit the Special Olympics Ontario website at: https://www1.specialolympicsontario.com/covid-19-updates/
Stay Safe Everyone!
Glenn MacDonell
President & CEO
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URGENT: COVID-19
Update: March 13/20
Communication Advisory: COVID-19
Attention: Special Olympics Ontario Communities, Clubs, Volunteers, Athletes, Partners, Associates and Families
In consultation with our partners, volunteers and other Special Olympics programs across Canada, Special Olympics Ontario is directing that all local sport programs, competitions, fundraisers and any related activities be suspended effective immediately until March 31, 2020.
We will continue to monitor and evaluate the status of this pandemic and advise you on or before March 31 the next course of action based on the information coming from health and government professionals.
All members, please advise the Special Olympics Ontario office immediately at covid19@specialolympicsontario.com in the event that you test positive for the disease and/or if you are self-isolating.
For more information and updates, please visit the Special Olympics Ontario website at: https://www1.specialolympicsontario.com/covid-19-updates/
Stay Safe Everyone!
Thanks for your understanding,
Glenn MacDonell
President & CEO
Special Olympics Ontario
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URGENT: COVID-19
March 9, 2020
Memo: COVID-19 monitoring & update
From: Glenn MacDonell, CEO & President, Special Olympics Ontario
To: SOO Communities
Dear SOO Athletes, families and volunteers
We would like to take this opportunity to inform you of the current recommendations for the Coronavirus (Covid-19). Since January 2020, a novel (new) coronavirus (COVID-19) was identified as the cause of an outbreak of pneumonia originating in Wuhan, China. The situation is rapidly evolving and Public Health Ontario, along with the Ministry of Health, is closely monitoring the outbreak, conducting surveillance and appropriate laboratory testing, and providing public health and infection control guidance.
We wish to advise at this point we do not have plans to cancel any of our programs, fundraising events, major games or special events. We will inform you if this situation changes. We ask that our SOO local programs collaborate, monitor and follow their local situation utilizing their community resources. For instance if the local parks and recreation is cancelling their programs due to a greater health risk then the local SO program should also cancel sport programs and community meetings. If the community is carrying on as usual then the local SO program should do the same.
SOO is working with our organizing committees for our major games (Waterloo and Kingston) and in collaboration with these local public health authorities and as stated previously we do not have plans to cancel the provincial games or the school championships. Should there be any changes we will advise you as soon as this occurs.
A note of safety to our SOO Members
The safety of our members is of utmost priority and we encourage everyone to take these simple actions that can help reduce exposure to the virus and protect your health.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol based hand sanitizer.
• Sneeze and cough into your sleeve or tissue.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Stay at home if you are sick.
Please advise if you are traveling
If you are traveling abroad from now until June 30th 2020 please advise your local programs of your destination (March break, vacations) and to be aware of the high potential of risk of infection in certain countries. For more information see the link below.
Link to https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/latest-travel-health-advice.html#ath for up-to-date information.
About coronaviruses
Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases. Some coronaviruses transmit between animals, some between animals and people, and others from people to people.
Symptoms of coronavirus infections
Coronavirus infections are common and typically lead to the common cold. Gastrointestinal disease is possible for young infants. Symptoms are usually mild to moderate and can include:
runny nose
headache
cough
sore throat
fever
a general feeling of being unwell
Although rare, other types of coronavirus infections cause illnesses such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) can produce more severe illnesses such as pneumonia, respiratory failure, kidney failure, or even death.
If you get a coronavirus infection
If you have cold-like symptoms, you can help protect others by doing the following:
stay home while sick
avoid close contact with others
cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the garbage and wash your hands
clean and disinfect objects and surfaces
How coronavirus infections are diagnosed
Coronavirus infections are diagnosed by a health care provider based on symptoms and laboratory tests. In some cases, travel history may be important.
Coronavirus infection treatment
For now, there is no specific treatments for most people with coronavirus infection. Most people with common coronavirus illness will recover on their own. Your health care provider may recommend steps you can take to relieve symptoms.
Consult your health care provider as soon as possible if you are concerned about your symptoms or have a travel history to a region where severe coronaviruses are known to occur. The sooner you get treatment, the better your chances are for recovery.
More Information
You can monitor the updates by linking to the Ontario Public Health sites https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/diseases-and-conditions/infectious-diseases/respiratory- diseases/novel-coronavirus. This site also provides self isolation guidelines and status reports on the virus.
Best regards, Glenn