Jun 10, 2020 | Pres | 1606 views
Provincial Hockey Branches Now Leading Reopening - Updated
Updated Information in Article
In mid May we posted the open letter to all Canadians from Hockey Canada regarding the development of a "multifaceted return-to-hockey plan". Early last week a couple of PECMHA Executive were able to attend a virtual meeting held by our provincial branch the Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) with over 600 other hockey representatives from across the province. The Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) our direct Governing Body is a member association of the OHF.
The OHF announced that Hockey Canada is now allowing each of the provincial branches across the country to work with local health authorities to determine the safe return to hockey. See their Full Announcement Here
The OHF's message in the virtual meeting matched what was said by Hockey Canada. That all decisions will be made in consultation with public health officials and hockey activities will look very different between each region in the province. Hockey in Thunder Bay could look different from hockey in Ottawa, Kingston and the GTHL. The timing of each stage of return to play or even when players will be allowed on the ice may also be different in each region. No dates have been set for any region as of yet.
** UPDATE ** As of 06/10/20 1:30pm the OHF Released its approved Return to Hockey plan and specifically the implementation of Phase 2 - Stage 1. The News Release can be found HERE
The Approved OHF Return to Hockey Framework can be found
HERE
It is very clear to everyone that when hockey does return it will look very different from the 2019/20 season.
Please note that Currently no hockey related team activities are permitted within the OMHA.
Hockey Canada has posted an FAQ page on their Covid-19 Return to Hockey site that may be able to answer any questions you may have. https://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/exclusive/return-to-hockey/plans/safety
The Prince Edward County Minor Hockey Association will release information relevant to our membership surrounding the return to play stages as it becomes available. The PECMHA Executive hope that all our members are safe and healthy and hopefully enjoying this time away from a busy sports schedules. We know that everyone is excited to return to play and get back to normal. Please know that your association and our governing bodies are working hard to ensure that when we do return to participating in the sport we love it is in a way that is safe for all of our players, parents and volunteers.