To: Houston Dynamo | Dash SC Membership
From: Don Gemmell, Technical Director
Re: COVID-19 Update - Suspension of Soccer Activities now through May 4
March 31, 2020
Dear Dynamo | Dash Youth membership:
We at the club are committed to supporting you through the unprecedented conditions that we are experiencing together. Thank you for taking COVID-19 seriously. The sacrifices you’re making during this time – canceling gatherings and social distancing from family and friends – are not in vain. These are incredibly important as we are doing all we can to slow the spread and flatten the curve of this pandemic.
We are working closely with local and state public health authorities as they follow their protocols for investigating and notifying any individuals who may have had exposure to an individual who tests positive.
As you know, we took the unusual step of suspending all soccer activities, originally through April 13th. In consideration of the latest guidance from the federal government, we are extending that suspension through May 4. We believe this is a very important time in our battle to contain the spread of the coronavirus and are convinced that a more rigorous approach now will make a big difference. We are working closely with local and state public health authorities as we follow their protocols for medical and public health guidance. Later in April, the club will provide updates as we know them. While we all hope to return to play as soon as possible, the health and safety of our players, parents, referees and team staff are our number one priority.
At this time, we have made no definitive decisions about the return to our various programming at our many locations. We are communicating with our school and league officials weekly and will be guided largely by what they believe will make the most sense given the many challenges that exist for our families.
Virtually all of our league partners have told us they are intent on completing their spring seasons, even though that might mean playing league games into June and July. We know that some coaches are being asked about refunds by concerned parents. We believe until a return-to-play date is established, and leagues agree on what will happen with the spring season, discussion of refunds is premature.
Our incredible staff are all working to stay engaged with our players by our on-line player development platform, College Fit Finder, and interactive videos/games. We, the coaching and administrative staff, are available for you to reach out to at any time. We are all in this together!
On behalf of the Board of Directors and the staff of Dynamo | Dash Youth Soccer Club, we wish all of you good health and speedy return to normalcy.
Sincerely,
Don Gemmell
Technical Director