I hope this message finds you healthy and safe.

Outlined below are some additional updates on the important topics of Teams on Pause (ToP) and the Reservation system as well as the ongoing reminder that face coverings need to be worn throughout the facility at all times.

State Rules/Team on Pause

The good news is that ToP has been revoked and our teams can return to practicing. Unfortunately, we faced similar challenges that we faced when ToP was implemented – the original guidance was written without full consideration for Aquatics, which is very important to our facility. The rules are final and permit teams to return with coaches on deck, everyone wearing masks and remaining socially distant while transitioning from pool deck to water and vice versa. There are restrictions – up to 4 athletes per lane can practice; however, the athletes need to be grouped in cohorts for the season.

While the teams can place multiple athletes in the water concurrently in a cohort, recreational lap swimming remains restricted at 1 swimmer per lane. Although we are lobbying for the concept of same household expanding to 2 swimmers per lane, the current restrictions remain in effect.

Due to the aquatic teams returning to pre-ToP practice frequency, we are revoking the Aquatic team exception for athletes under 16 reserving a lane with a parent on deck. Reminder that regardless of age or team affiliation, we are limiting to one swim/one reservation per day.

The expectation is that the above changes should lessen the demand for swim lanes. Early review of the reservation system indicates this to be the case.

App Automation

We have now been operating with the automated opening of the reservation system for about a week.  Many of the Members like the uniformity of the same time every day, although there are challenges when all participants are trying to use the App concurrently. There are also those who may not have the best internet connection or latest equipment. You can always contact the Front Desk to seek assistance.

However, we heard from many of you who are working, commuting or exercising at 8 AM that booking a reservation at that time creates a challenge. As such, we are going to modify the time for making reservations from 8 AM two days in advance to 8 PM 2.5 days in advance – for example – in order to record a reservation for Thursday, the reservation window will open at 8 PM on Monday evening. The evening should hopefully provide more opportunity for the working, commuting and exercising Member as well as permitting those who retire early to have adequate time to reserve. I recognize that this change may not be the best for everyone but trying to do what is best for the greater good.

Last point – we cannot control the exact date when this change will be implemented. App changes need to be reviewed prior to release. Last time we were told to expect in 3 days and was released two days early. We will send a push notification through the App when the change has been completed.

Face Covering

The state rules, the CDC, Dr. Fauci and all reliable science points to the proper wearing of a face covering is critical to keeping the COVID-19 virus at bay. The state rules as they relate to our facility are straightforward. Wear a face covering at all times with VERY limited exception – entering/in/exiting water – pool or showers. However, this does not permit Members to walk the pool deck or around the locker room without a face covering. One needs to dry one’s face immediately upon emerging from the water and cover one’s face.

I recognize that rigorous exercise with a face covering is not the most enjoyable. We do provide Private Cardio rooms where you can exercise without a face covering. These rooms are popular but I do see availability throughout the day. Please use these rooms.

We have already had many Members who have canceled their Membership due to non-compliance.  We do not want to revoke reservation privileges for Members for non-compliance but will do so to assure a healthy and safe environment for the greater good.

Stay Healthy and Safe!

Michael Kelly,

Chief Operating Officer,
Greenwich YMCA

 

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