The Manitoba U18 AAA Hockey League has suspended league play for the remainder of the 2020-21 season.

Commissioner Levi Taylor stated on the league website that while no league championship will be awarded, teams are permitted to pursue activity, including practices, team events and exhibition games, as Public Health restrictions may permit.

Taylor noted that the decision reflects the uncertain timeline and lack of direction from Public Health with respect to game play.

The league will continue to engage with the provincial government, Public Health and local facilities to ensure a safe and responsible return to play for the 2021-22 season.

The 2020-21 season was suspended on November 12th due to COVID-19 code red restrictions.

The latest Public Health Order announced Friday allows indoor ice rinks to open for practices and drills.

There will no longer be one on one requirement and no organized games or tournaments are allowed. Groups of a maximum of 10 players will be able to participate in practices (excluding coaches and instructors) and must take reasonable measures that there is no interaction between different groups participating at the same time.

The ice surface can be divided in half with one group on each side. Players and coaches are required to wear face masks at all times including while on the ice and on the bench.

Indoor rinks will be permitted to open at 25 percent total capacity, with Public Health Orders in place for spectators and common areas. Dressing rooms will be permitted to open at 50 percent of the usual capacity or to a number that ensures that all persons in the dressing room are able to maintain a separation of at least two meters from other persons, whichever is lesser.


photo courtesy Merlin Heppner