Dear Gauteng Schools Water Polo Parents, Players, Coaches, Officials and Community
We have followed, in a strict manner, the recommendations of the National Institute for Communicable
Diseases and the Department of Health with regard to dealing with any positive cases and any close
contacts of positive cases. We refer to the letter from GSWP dated 2 October – the protocol below is an
update from that letter.
POSITIVE COVID-19 CASE:
If a player or coach has tested positive, we require them to quarantine immediately for a period of a
minimum of 10 days after testing positive. They may return to training from 10 days onward, on the
advice of their medical doctor.
If the player or coach has attended GSWP training up to 48 hours prior to their test result, we will
attempt to identify all other players and/or coaches who we consider to be close contacts. We advise
them to seek medical attention should they feel any Covid-like symptoms.
PRIMARY/CLOSE CONTACT OF A POSITIVE COVID-19 CASE
If we receive a report of a player or coach who has had close contact with a positive Covid-19 case, or
we identify any players/coaches as close contacts, there are two options for the player/coach:
OPTION 1: A PCR test 5 days after their last contact with the positive Covid-19 case
We require them, as a close contact, to isolate immediately for a period of 5 days after contact. On
Day 5 after their last exposure to the positive case, the player/coach may do a PCR test. If they test
negative, they may return to training after having provided the team manager with a copy of the test.
Unfortunately, rapid tests will not be accepted. Secondary contacts need not isolate.
OPTION 2: Isolate for 10 days after their last contact with the positive Covid-19 case, with no PCR
test
If a player/coach chooses not to PCR test, we require them, as a close contact, to isolate immediately
for a period of 10 days after contact. They may return to training from 10 days onward, provided that
they are not showing symptoms. Secondary contacts need not isolate.
GSWP appeals to parents, coaches and players to be responsible citizens, particularly in the build up
to the IPT. We are trying to ensure that our squads are all able to travel and compete at the IPT and
need the GSWP community to assist us in this regard. We appeal to all parents to keep their
daughters and sons at home if anyone in the family is showing any Covid-19 like symptoms. Please
notify us of any positive Covid-19 cases or of any tracing as a close contact.
We assure players that any lack of attendance due to periods of isolation will be acceptable.
Please be assured that the health of the GSWP community is a matter of high priority for us. Thank
you for all your support through these most unprecedented and challenging times.
Your sincerely
Andrew Ridley
Chairman – Gauteng Schools Water Polo