Club Statement – Covid-19

KEIGHLEY Cougars can today confirm there has been a positive case of Covid-19 within the team bubble.

As a part of the twice weekly lateral flow testing under the Rugby Football League’s protocols, a positive test was recorded yesterday evening ahead of training.

The club followed the protocol and recording process put in place by both the governing body and Public Health England following the recording of the positive result.

The player who tested positive is now following the isolation period as set by the government and is being supported by the club’s medical team.

Track and Trace procedures have also been followed with an immediate review of the video from Thursday evening’s training, which is within the 48-hour period of the positive test, taking place.

The outcome of this review is that a further five players have been identified as close contacts and will also have to self-isolate for the recommended isolation period.

The club will continue to support the players affected and monitor the situation should it develop further.

A member of the coaching staff has also been identified as a close contact and will have to isolate for the recommended isolation period.

All those self-isolating are now unavailable for both tomorrow’s game against the West Wales Raiders, and next Sunday’s trip to the Coventry Bears.

The Rugby Football League have also granted dispensation under Covid-19 protocols for the club to make four changes to the previously named 21-man squad as a result of players having to isolate.

Frank Levy, Keighley Cougars Team Manager and Covid-19 officer said: “Whilst we were prepared for this eventuality, we are of course disappointed to have recorded our first positive test of the season.

“The immediate response from our medical and administrative teams last night following the recording of the positive result was nothing short of outstanding, as shown by the fact that they did not leave Cougar Park until shortly before Midnight.

“We as a club will support the players and staff that have to self-isolate, and our Player Welfare Manager Judith Marples will remain in contact with them throughout this period.

“The Rugby Football League have praised us for our fast and swift response to the situation and are happy they have cleared us to be able to fulfil tomorrow’s fixture against the West Wales Raiders.

“We will continue to monitor the situation daily over the next ten days and hopefully we will avoid any further disruption.”

Keighley Cougars can also confirm that Cougar Park has this morning undergone a deep clean to make the stadium Covid secure ahead of tomorrow’s game and offer an extra layer of protection for supporters, staff, players, and officials.

Keighley Cougars will also make no further comment on this matter at this time following this statement.