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UPDATE from Spain Rugby Union:
“After further testing this evening we wish to inform the rugby community that the tests carried out this morning were false positives for COVID-19. All other teams have been confirmed as NEGATIVE. The teams that have decided to not continue in Madrid7s have done so for precaution only.”
PRESS RELEASE
MADRID – The USA Women’s 7s National Team has decided to withdraw from its remaining matches at Madrid Sevens. As a precautionary step due to positive cases on other teams, the program will not risk any additional exposure to players or staff.
All USA players and staff rostered for this weekend returned negative results before today’s matches began. Prior to travel, the full squad will be tested again and undergo any additional isolation or wellness protocols recommended by team medical personnel in accordance with CDC guidelines.
The Eagles Sevens defeated Spain (32-5) and Portugal (62-0) in their opening games. Read more.
Women’s High Performance Director Emilie Bydwell said:
“It was terrific to see the players out on the field again after such a long break in international rugby. We want to thank the Spain Rugby Union for organizing this event so that all teams could have meaningful competition after a challenging year. Ultimately, it is our responsibility to put players and staff first and ensure they can continue their Olympic preparation upon return to the U.S. early next week. We have certainly learned a lot from this event that will help guide our planning and preparation for future competitions.”
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USA Women’s Sevens COVID-19 Safety Procedures
USA Women’s Sevens program reassembled in January following rigorous entry testing and quarantine process in accordance with local mandates and stringent protocols from the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee.
Programs utilize a robust contact tracing system to identify and minimize any exposure to the virus.
Protocols include:
- COVID-19 testing before and after a mandatory 3-day quarantine
- Antibody and echo cardiac testing
- Periodic testing and mandatory ‘Bubble’ re-entry in the event of travel or uncontrolled community exposure
- Daily symptom and temperature checks as mandated by the USOPC and Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center
- Additional internal daily wellness checks
- Assigned training groups implemented to reduce unnecessary close contact and limit transmission risk
- Maintain more than 6 ft distance from all staff
- Signed Training Agreement adhering to all safety rules