Mark Lillicrap will be the man in charge of making sure Chilliwack FC’s return-to-play guidelines are followed by players, coaches, parents and volunteers. (Submitted photo)

Mark Lillicrap will be the man in charge of making sure Chilliwack FC’s return-to-play guidelines are followed by players, coaches, parents and volunteers. (Submitted photo)

Chilliwack FC hires Mark Lillicrap to oversee COVID return-to-play guidelines

Lillicrap will serve as CFC's first-ever Health and Safety Officer

Chilliwack FC has hired Mark Lillicrap as the organization’s first ever Health and Safety Officer.

Looking to get 2000-plus soccer players back on the pitch during the COVID-19 pandemic, CFC is looking to Lillicrap to ensure return-to-play guidelines are followed by players, coaches, volunteers and parents.

A Chilliwack resident, Lillicrap is certified as an Advanced Medical Service Provider with CPR-HCP by St. John Ambulance and has volunteered for the Brigade since 2017, providing first aid coverage at community events in the Chilliwack area and at Rogers Arena. He also serves as an assistant trainer for the Chilliwack Chiefs, assisting staff and players with medical and equipment issues, assessing and diagnosing injuries, ensuring compliance with Hockey Canada’s concussion protocols and overseeing Chilliwack Coliseum’s risk management.

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“Our Executive is eager to see our players back on the pitch this fall and recognizes the importance of continued active living, competition, and socialization amongst our youth,” said Chilliwack FC chairperson Andrea Laycock. “We are confident Mark’s skill set and knowledge will be an asset to our organization and assure parents that our return to play will have all COVID-19 preventative measures in place.”

Since June, CFC has implemented a return-to-play policy that includes contact tracing, increased hand hygiene, the wearing of masks to and from the field, and adapted curriculum to encourage physical distancing. Under the guidance of viaSport and BC Soccer, Chilliwack FC has taken a phased approach to reintroducing competitive games and practices.

Fall soccer would normally be starting in early September and registration is open at chilliwackfc.com


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Chilliwack Progress