LETHBRIDGE, AB – Another setback for the Western Hockey League as it tried to salvage some type of season.
The WHL announced Tuesday (Dec. 15) it will delay the start of the 2020-21 regular season, and following further consultation with regional health authorities, the Board of Governors will meet in January to consider potential start dates.
With public health restrictions in place across Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest U.S., the WHL is not in a position to start its season as planned on January 8, 2021.
“We continue to make every effort to get our season started, but our first priority has always been the health and safety of our players, and everyone associated with the WHL,” commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. “Given the public health restrictions that are currently in effect, we are not in a position to determine a new target date for our season. We will continue to consult with health authorities to determine when it is safe and responsible to get our season started.”
The WHL has developed a series of protocols in consultation with health authorities that are necessary to protect WHL players, staff, officials, and fans during the COVID-19 pandemic.