Youth sports resume with contact allowed in 'field bubbles'

Youth sports can now resume, although physical contact in games such as football and rugby will be limited to “field bubbles” on the pitch.

As Scotland eases out of lockdown, restrictions on organised sport for children under the age of 17 have been lifted.

Youth teams will be able to train again, though only under strict safety rulings, including remaining in small groups.

The Scottish Government’;s official guidance says that contact will only be allowed in “bubbles” on the field of play, with normal physical distancing to be observed during all other training.

National clinical director Professor Jason Leitch said: “We’ve long known the benefits of exercise and the positive impact on physical and mental well-being.

“We know that organised sport can also teach important life skills to young people like perseverance, discipline, resilience, and accountability – and social skills like communication and teamwork and conflict management.

“Or perhaps more importantly, and most importantly, it’s also good fun.”

Clubs and community groups will have to apporint a “Covid officer” to ensure that rules are followed. The Scottish Football Association and Scottish Rugby have already published detailed guidance on safety for clubs and participants.

Prof Leitch added: “It’s very important this exemption is for on-field contact, once you cross the white line on to the other side you are no longer exempt from the physical contact restrictions.”