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Stoke City set to return to action on June 20

The EFL has announced that the Championship is provisionally set to return on June 20, subject to the “strict proviso” that all safety regulations can be met and all clubs receive clearance to play home games from their respective local authorities.

This means Stoke City could return to action in three weeks time, should all of these conditions be met.

The news comes following Saturday’s announcement by the UK Government that competitive sport can return from tomorrow (Monday, June 1) onwards.

Discussions are taking place to possible extend matchday squads from 18 to 20 and permit five substitutes in a single game with view of concluding the season with the play-off final on July 30.

A spokesperson for the EFL said: “After discussing various approaches, and, the importance of completing the season in a similar timeline to that of the Premier League to avoid any potential issues with promoted and relegated clubs, the Sky Bet Championship season is set to conclude with the Championship Play-Off Final on or around July 30, 2020.

“Final details are still to be confirmed following further discussions with the League’s Broadcast partner, Sky Sports.

There has been no action at the Bet365 Stadium since March

“During the weekend’s discussions it was further agreed to consider changing regulations to permit the use of five substitutes in the remaining fixtures and, also increasing the matchday squad from 18 to 20 players. Discussions will continue with Championship Clubs in this respect.

EFL Chair Rick Parry added: “With Sky Bet Championship Clubs set to return to full contact training later this week and following Saturday’s Government announcement, we are edging closer towards resuming the 2019/20 EFL season.

“We have therefore today consulted with the Board’s Championship Directors and agreed to fixtures restarting behind closed doors on 20 June.

“Whilst matches will unfortunately have to take place without supporters, we are working with our broadcast partners, EFL Championship Clubs and all relevant stakeholders to broadcast the remaining 108 games plus Sky Bet Championship Play-Offs either live on Sky Sports, iFollow or a club’s equivalent streaming service.

“We must stress that at this stage the date is only provisional and will only be confirmed once we have met all the requirements, as the health, safety and well-being of all participants, staff and supporters remains our top priority.

“Clearly completing the season in a safe manner is going to require a significant effort by all concerned and, whilst not unprecedented, it will need Clubs to play a significant number of matches over a relatively short period of time.”

No word has been mentioned regarding League One, which Burton Albion are members of, as of yet.

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Rugby clubs in Staffordshire allowed to open their facilities and start training from tomorrow

The RFU has stated that clubs can now re-open their facilities and restart training from Monday (June 1) if they wish to, provided that social distancing rules can be met.

The UK Government announced on Saturday (May 30) that competitive sport can now return behind closed doors.

Rugby training must take place outside and either be with members from the same household, or in a group of up to six people from different households who remain two metres apart at all times.

However, the RFU also emphasised that “rugby activity remains suspended” with the authority confirming to Sport in Staffs earlier this week that no start date for the 2020/21 season has yet been set.

Among many guidelines on resuming training, the sports body said that equipment from different households must not be shared, physical contact is prohibited and players must wash their hands regularly.

Training can now resume but only if clubs ensure that guidelines can be adhered to

Coaching may take place but only as a part of a group of six with people advised not to mix with too many people from other households.

Clubhouses will be allowed to open but only for access to toilets and for takeaway food and drink.

A spokesperson for the RFU said: “Each club should make individual decisions about when their facilities are ready to open and can be operated safely.

“Until a club believes it is safe and responsible to re-open, it should remain closed. Facilities that are open must follow relevant government guidance.

“We are producing a roadmap to show the steps that we aim to take to reboot rugby as lockdown measures ease further. We will share this with the rugby community by the end of next week.

“In addition, we are looking at the impact of the above on restarting adult and age grade competitions and playing opportunities, plans are nearing completion, we expect to be able to announce intent based on different scenarios for next season’s start date in the next few weeks.”

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England deaf team international among flood of new signings at Burton Rugby Club

An England deaf team international is one of many players that Burton Rugby Club has brought in this off-season.

Amidst coronavirus, this summer is a big period for the club as it moves from old ground Peel Croft into a new home. Earlier this month, the Staffordshire outfit already unveiled its first two signings since the 2019/20 season was ended prematurely due to Covid-19.

Now, it has announced 11 further players will pull on the colours of Burton next campaign, whenever that may start.

Amongst them is tight head prop Corey Beck, who has captained the England Deaf national team. He arrives with bags of experience, including from the period he played at National 2 level.

The Burton faithful were equally very happy to welcome Dave Archer back into the set-up after several injury-hampered seasons. Described as “arguably one of the most talented players ever to play for Burton”, he has featured more than 200 times for the club.

Corey Beck is just one of a host of talented new signings for Burton

Also through the door is Stephen Hunt who has represented Leicestershire under-20s, as has back rower Ben Sanderson who also comes in as a new signing.

They will be playing alongside fellow new recruits Josh Ballance, Louis Vale and Charles Austin as they too commit their playing futures to Burton for the 2020/21 campaign.

Second row and Staffordshire Under-20s captain Tom Taylor also joins Burton, giving the management another string to their bow.

Another piece of news supporters were happy to see was the re-signing of Lewis Brooks. After a year away from the game, the Midlands Premier Division side said it was “excited” to welcome home the outside centre.

Finally, Oli Rizk – who previously made an appearance for Burton’s first team – and former junior Dom Phillips both re-join the club in time for the new season following respective stints away at university.

The RFU told Sport in Staffs this week that “no definitive date” is being targeted for the start of the 2020/21 rugby season in Staffordshire amid coronavirus.

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Uttoxeter Town unveil new manager

Staffordshire outfit Uttoxeter Town has announced its new manager ahead of the 2020/21 season – the first person to take on the full-time position at the club since the tragic passing of former boss Dean Arnold earlier this year.

The Midland Football League side has revealed that ex-Sutton Coldfield and Romulus player Elliott Millin will take over the reins at the Division 1 club.

Having only stopped playing recently, Millin said he was “looking forward to the challenge ahead.”

With manager John Allen, he helped Churnet Valley go from playing in Uttoxeter and District League Division 3 to becoming title holders, domestic cup holders and 2018/19 Staffordshire cup holders.

Upon arriving at the club, Millin thanked the staff and volunteers at Uttoxeter Town for the opportunity as well as wife Adele and daughter Isabelle, but not before giving a touching tribute to 49-year-old Dean.

“It is with great pleasure I recently accepted the position of manager at Uttoxter Town Football Club,” he said.

“However, I am very mindful that the opportunity was only available due to tragic circumstances, and I would like to place on record my admiration to Dean Arnold for the fantastic job he did for the club both as a player and a manager.

The club wore commemorative warm-up shirts before a match following the shock news of Dean’s passing

“Dean was Uttoxeter Town through and through, and although I had only known him for a few years I could tell he was a genuine football man and had a huge dedication and passion for the game and the club.

“Through Dean’s guidance and unique personality the squad has thrived and developed a winning mentality for which I feel I can build on, and use these qualities and ethos to create a committed and successful football team.

“Dean and his team had built a very strong squad and winning mentality and it is my intention to continue to build on this and with it hopefully bring some success.”

Millin praised the strength in depth throughout the Uttoxeter squad, and also touched on the dedicated army of supporters at the club.

“I am privileged to have inherited a quality squad with huge squad depth; a good headache for any manager,” he continued.

“To have this many top footballers at the club is a further testament to the community spirit that exists and with an ethos to make the football played at Uttoxeter Town FC attractive, technical, enjoyable and welcoming for the players and fans.

Uttoxeter were in a promotion spot in MFL Division 1 when the non-league season was cancelled due to coronavirus

“This also extends to the significant number of volunteers and fans who give up a large proportion of their own time to support the club on both match days and throughout the rest of the week. Thank you.”

Millin, who only moved to the area six years ago, said he was looking forward to leading the club and has high aims for the upcoming campaign.

“I think it is fair to say that up until the recent Covid-19 pandemic, and the subsequent abandonment of the 2019/20 season, the club were in an excellent position in the league and were quite rightly being touted for promotion.

“I see no reason why we shouldn’t be one of the favourites for promotion again when the upcoming season starts. Stuart Hall will be assisting me with this and I would like to extend my thanks to Stuart for all his support to date.

“I’m looking forward to working on the short, medium and long term plans for the club and I know that there is a great pool of talent coming through from the younger lads in the reserves and junior sides.”

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27-goal attacker departs Stafford Rangers

Stafford Rangers has announced that a prolific attacker has left the club on amicable terms to join a National League North outfit.

Jake Charles leaves Marston Road to join Farsley Celtic, who are located closer to his Leeds home.

The 24-year-old joined Boro in October 2018, going on to net 27 times in 71 appearances for the Northern Premier League side.

Charles, came through the ranks at Huddersfield Town and has gone on to sign for the likes of Barnsley and York City, making his league debut in 2015.

He was also chosen to play for Wales at under 17, 19 and 21 level, representing his country just as his grandfather, the great late John Charles CBE – who played for the likes of Leeds United and Juventus – did.

Charles gave Boro fans many a joyous moment during his spell with the club

A spokesperson for Stafford Rangers said: “We can announce that Jake Charles will be joining Farsley Celtic, in Vanarama National League North.

“With the club being a few miles from Jake’s Leeds home and being a division higher, the decision was quite a draw, especially in the current climate.

“Although Jake’s contract with Rangers had expired, Farsley had the decency to approach us for permission to speak with Jake, so we thank them for their conduct over the matter and we wish Jake the very best for the future and thank him for his service.

“27 goals in 71 appearances made Jake a favourite with many fans. All the best, Jake!”

Charles’ exit follows the departure of four other Boro players this week.

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Golfers in Staffordshire can play fourball from Monday

Following yesterday’s announcement by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, golfers in Staffordshire are will be allowed to play threeball and fourball once again.

On Thursday (May 28), Mr Johnson stated that from June 1 up to six people from different households can now meet outside as long as they attain a two-metre distance.

Now, England Golf has confirmed that threeball and fourball golf can take place across England once more from Monday, keeping to Government social distancing guidelines at all times, meaning up to four people from different homes can play together.

The sports body also said that clubs can now run competitions once more if they wish to, again, provided that social distancing rules can be adhered to.

England Golf commented that this was part of its “phased return to play.”

The announcement will mean friends will be able to play golf together again – providing social distancing rules are met

A spokesperson for England Golf said: “The latest UK government adjustment of lockdown conditions now permits golf clubs in England to re-introduce the fourball format from Monday, June 1.

“For coaching in England, the impact of these changes remains unclear. The PGA are working in collaboration with the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Golf to seek confirmation. Further guidance will be communicated once clarity can be provided.

“Please note it is essential that golfers continue to strictly observe social distancing and safety regulations relating to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“While Covid-19 remains a live threat in our communities, we would ask everyone involved in the game to act responsibly, show respect and protect the wellbeing of golfers, staff and volunteers.”

This news comes after England Golf announced that golf courses could re-open earlier this month.

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“No definitive start date” for rugby in Staffordshire – RFU

The RFU has confirmed to Sport in Staffs that no date has been set regarding the return of rugby in Staffordshire and the rest of the country ahead of the 2020/21 season.

The 2019/20 domestic season was ended early due to the coronavirus pandemic, with league positions from the Championship down being decided by a “best playing record formula.”

This meant among many other final standings, Staffordshire side Uttoxeter were crowned Midlands 3 West champions and gained promotion while fellow county outfit Newcastle managed to narrowly evade relegation from Midlands 2 West (North).

The general feeling within the rugby community is that it is likely that the game will be one of the last sports to return to action, due to the close-contact nature of it, especially at recreational level.

Now, the RFU has told Sport in Staffs that there is still no official date that the sports body is targeting for rugby to return, stating that any step towards this would depend on UK Government guidelines.

Sporting bodies are expected to update their guidelines following PM Boris John’s announce on Thursday

A spokesperson for the RFU said: “With the regards to fixtures for the 2020/21 season, the RFU has a dedicated team working on restarting competition for the new season.

“However, as it stands there is no definitive start date. Ultimately, the RFU will be directed by government advice regarding the re-start of community sports and required social distancing measures.”

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Thursday (May 28) that from June 1 up to six people from different households can meet outdoors, including private gardens, provided a two-metre distance is kept.

Many sporting authorities have already indicated that they are looking into how they may be able to resume their respective sport’s activities following this news.

The RFU’s statement to Sport in Staffs was given prior to Mr Johnson’s speech.

As of Friday morning (May 29), the RFU had made no further update regarding the return on rugby activity in England.

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Junior cricket could return before recreational, says ECB

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has stated it “hopes” to restart junior cricket again earlier than the commencing of the 2020 recreational cricket season, which it says is still suspended due to coronavirus.

In a statement released on Thursday, the sporting body said that the delayed start to the professional domestic season has been extended to August 1 but it is looking to potentially bring back junior cricket once again as children begin to return back to school from June 1.

The ECB said the “specifics” of men’s and women’s cricket seasons are subject to UK Government guidance but it hopes that the domestic campaign can start later this summer.

Earlier this month, it said that cricket clubs can re-open nets and pitches once again, but only if social distancing guidelines can be adhered to.

A spokesperson for the ECB said: “The recreational game currently remains suspended until further notice – with the sole exception of the use of outdoor cricket facilities (nets and pitches) for the purpose of undertaking exercise.

“The ECB will seek to progress discussions with the UK Government to begin mapping out a return, including the potential for an earlier return of junior cricket.”

The ECB are “hoping” that junior cricket can return sooner now that schools are reopening next month

ECB Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison, said: “Naturally we want to see cricket being played at every level.

“That can only happen though when it is safe, and we have said throughout this crisis that the safety and well-being of everyone involved in the game is our key priority.

“Across the recreational game it has been heart-warming to hear of clubs where players have returned to the nets. As children start returning to school in the coming weeks, we look forward to exploring how those guidelines and learnings can be deployed for cricket.

“This can then see the recreational game continue its phased return as soon as we have Government approval.”

The news comes after some junior leagues have already announced that their respective seasons have been cancelled for 2020, including the South Moorlands Junior Cricket League in Staffordshire.

The ECB also said that the Professional Game Group (PGG) is looking at ways to live stream non-televised games that are played behind closed doors for members and supporters.

Mr Harrison added: “We have learned a lot and continue to learn about the safety protocols that would need to be in place to stage international cricket behind closed doors in this environment and those protocols will also need to apply to the domestic game.”

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Burton Albion Community Trust raises almost £7,000 through its 2.6 challenge

The Burton Albion Community Trust (BACT) has raised nearly £7,000 through its 2.6 Challenge – money that will go towards the charity’s community work as well as the University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust.

After this year’s London Marathon was cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, The 2.6 Challenge was set up, asking people to raise money for charities and organisations by undergoing a challenge that incorporates the number 26 or 2.6, such as 26 press-ups or jogging 2.6 miles.

BACT says “overwhelming generosity” led to more than 200 separate contributions, including those from the Burton Albion Academy, being made to the cause over the course of 26 days with a little over £6,700 raised in all.

Matt Hancock, Head of Community, said: “We’re extremely appreciative of everyone’s support and we’ve managed to raise an amazing amount of money. It will go a long way in supporting both BACT and the fantastic work of everyone at Burton Hospital.

The BATC are still pushing on towards its £10,000 goal

“We’re now reaching out to everyone to help give us a final push and to help to us to get to the £10,000 mark!”

Paul Reynolds, Head of Education and Welfare at Burton Albion Academy, added: “It’s been really fantastic for all of the academy players and their families to get involved with the campaign.

“We’re really grateful to them for their commitment and it’s important for our academy to support the work that our community trust delivers.”

The Trust set a target of £10,000 and is still “very determined” to reach that figure soon.

The money raised will be used to support the future work of the Trust and the University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust.

To donate to the cause, click here.

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Hem Heath CC raises over £1,400 for Smash The Tash campaign

Staffordshire cricket club Hem Heath has raised more than £1,400 for the Smash The Tash campaign which is fundraising for the NHS amid coronavirus and subsequent the suspension of the start of the cricket season.

The club decided to contribute to the cause – which has now raised more than £20,000 – and launched ‘The Double Ton-up Challenge’ which consisted of members running between cricket wickets (which are 22 yards apart) to score a minimum 200 ‘runs’ every day for 10 days during May.

This meant each participant would run the equivalent of just under a marathon, with many ending up running further – all in their cricket whites, pads and helmets.

“I thought it would be fairly easy but it was actually quite hard when you are in your full kit, especially when it is sunny,” Hem Heath first team captain Greg Prime told Sport in Staffs.

“I completed a half-marathon in March so the running bit was fine for me but there was definitely a lot of sweat in the helmet afterwards,” he laughed.

Greg, who helped to organise the fundraiser, went on to explain that vice captain Tom East had kept track of the number of runs made throughout the fundraiser and revealed that members had managed clock more than 54,000 runs in total – surpassing the number of runs cricketing great WG Grace had tallied throughout his first class career.

Hem Heath members ran the equivalent distance of a marathon over ten days in cricket gear – each

Greg said that the money raised from the effort would be going to a worthy cause.

“What Smash The Tash has done is absolutely brilliant,” he said.

“To raise as much money as they have so far is fantastic, and now more clubs are taking part in initiatives than ever before. It’s brilliant that so many clubs are getting involved.”

David Fairbanks, who set up Smash The Tash with Craig Barker and David Edwards, commented: “One of the key points is how I approached ‘Primey’ and he had an initiative set up in within 24 hours.

“Him and Tom East were the driving force behind the initiative and the response and reaction from the rest of the lads and lasses gave me and Craig goosebumps when when popped down to Trentham Lakes on Saturday to see them. An absolute credit to their club, the league and Stoke-on-Trent.”

Hem Heath batsman Greg added: “Our Just Giving page is still open so people can still donate to our fundraiser if they want to. It closes this weekend and all money will be sent to Smash The Tash.”

To donate to Hem Heath CC’s ‘Double Ton-up Challenge’ click here.

To donate directly to the Smash The Tash campaign, click here.

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