Hockey Canada says it is working on a multifaceted return-to-play plan as large parts of the country begin to ease social distancing restrictions, the organization revealed in an open letter to Canadians on Thursday.
The news comes on the tails of Ontario’s announcement that the first stage of its recovery plan, which includes the resumption of outdoor recreational activities and many individual sports competitions, is slated to kick off May 19. Other provinces such as B.C. and Alberta have already taken similar steps, while Quebec will move ahead along the same lines next week.
However, the timeline and details on the resumption of team sports, like hockey, remains unclear.
Hockey Canada says its plan covers a wide variety of topics — from health and safety regulations to seasonal structure and national teams — and will be instituted when provincial and territorial governments, as well as health authorities, give the green light.
“As the return-to-hockey plan progresses, it will do so at different speeds, and at different times, across the country, based on direction from health authorities,” the organization said in a statement.
“And the game will look different, that much we do know. We ask for patience as we continue to work towards ensuring hockey plays its role in bringing the sports community back.”
Hockey Canada emphasized the “health and safety” of everyone involved in the game will determine when it is OK to return, not a “desire to get back on the ice.”
“When our country is ready, Hockey Canada will be ready. Until then, continue to follow the guidelines set by your provincial and territorial government to help limit the spread of COVID-19. Only by working together will we be able to make a difference and safely return,” the statement continued.
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