KIJHL cancels its season

The Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL) has announced the cancellation of its 2020/21 regular season and playoffs, including the Teck Cup championship.

The decision was made following Friday’s update from the provincial government that includes an extension on restrictions in place under the current Provincial Health Order until late February at the earliest.

“We are disappointed for our players, team staff, volunteers, sponsors, game officials and fans that the 2020/21 season will not be completed,” said KIJHL commissioner Jeff Dubois. “Over the past number of months we have made every effort possible to keep our athletes on the ice and to give all of them, and especially our graduating 20-year olds, the opportunity to compete for a league championship.

“However, the further extension of the PHO takes us beyond where our regular season would typically end and our playoffs would begin,” continued Dubois. “As we approach March and April, we are faced with the reality of arenas removing their ice for the spring and summer, and that leaves us unable to plan for a meaningful conclusion to our season.”

KIJHL clubs will have the option to continue to train under the current PHO guidelines, and the possibility remains that exhibition games may be played if restrictions are relaxed in the future.

“I’d like to thank all of our stakeholders for their patience and understanding during a difficult and challenging season,” said Dubois. “Our athletes and team staff have done a tremendous job of keeping everyone safe, and our billet families deserve special recognition for welcoming players into their homes during this pandemic. We look forward to returning to the ice this fall and getting back to the game we all love.”