Munich (dpa / lby) - The Bavarian State Sports Association (BLSV) has warned of an energy lockdown and a renewed closure of sports facilities and swimming pools. "This is not a suitable measure for us at all. We cannot get anything from the recommendation of the German Association of Cities," said BLSV President Jörg Ammon on Friday in a virtual press conference. Sport and exercise are essential for people to stay physically healthy, argued the official. "The long-term damage compared to short-term monetary savings is great," Ammon warned.
The German Association of Cities recently suggested saving money by suspending the operation of indoor swimming pools in view of rising energy prices. Before the BLSV, the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) had already criticized this recommendation.
The BLSV is nevertheless aware that the impending gas shortage will affect the club landscape in the cooler months. "A mixture of pandemic and energy crisis - both are coming together now," Ammon said. "Of course there will be energy savings. At the latest with the time change. For example when it comes to floodlights."
Clubs are also considering increasing membership fees. "We know from many clubs that they are taking this step," reported Ammon. However, he hardly fears that members will resign, "because the sports club is a very cheap area for many people in terms of living."
