The 2020 NASH Cup is scheduled to begin in just 70 days.
A decision regarding any postponement or cancellation will be made in the last week of July.
As we know, the global situation is evolving daily.
If it runs, the 2020 event will be unlike any NASH Cup that has taken place before.
Over the past two months the NASH Cup committee, working with London Squash and the PSA, has mapped out what it would take to go forward:
- Squash Play – The ability to play squash is currently very limited in Ontario. London Squash & Fitness is open, but court use is restricted to individual or same household play. This restriction would need to be lifted to a level that would allow PSA players to face each other.
- Travel – Canada is allowing only essential travel beyond its borders and enforcing a 14-day quarantine for anyone entering the country. This currently includes those travelling among some provinces. Three provinces and all territories are now clear of covid-19. As a nation we are progressing well with less than 500 cases per day for the past two weeks. The City of London currently has less than 50 active cases total (pop. 400,000). Unfortunately, this is not the case in other areas of the world. We expect extreme travel limitations to remain in place through September. Some improvement from current levels will be required.
- Social Gathering – Ontario is currently restricting social gatherings to 10 people (with 2m physical distancing enforced). To run successfully a minimum of 25 will be required.
- PSA World Tour – The PSA tour is halted until mid-August. Decisions on postponing the season further are generally made the second week of each month.
Another update will be sent in the weeks ahead. The NASH Cup can be run successfully with very little lead time. Even if the above factors are not all confirmed by late July the committee may choose to continue with preparations. We are thankful for all of those who are involved as players; sponsors; spectators; volunteers; and billets.
Bringing world class squash back to London Squash this fall is the goal, but health and safety will not be compromised.
If the decision is made to move forward it will be done with professional consultation and the utmost of care.
The NASH Cup is a collaborative, community effort.
All input and feedback is most welcome.
Sincerely,
Jay Nash
Tournament Host
