Newly modified state and Buncombe County orders have liberalized the recommendations for outdoor gatherings. Deerfield leadership has decided to once again allow residents from separate households to share a social game of croquet. Those using the croquet court are required by Deerfield policy to practice careful social distancing at all times. Both players and spectators are required to wear a face mask. To prevent COVID-19 transmission, all croquet players must thoroughly disinfect all shared equipment prior to use and also after use.
As with outdoor social get-togethers, local, state, and national guidance does continue to discourage older adults from leaving the home except for essential purposes. When incorporating social distancing, mask-wearing by all players and spectators, and thorough disinfection of equipment, the risk for COVID-19 transmission is low. Therefore, Deerfield has opted to allow inter-household croquet games to occur on campus.