WHL Announces Start Of 2020 - 2021 Campaign

It's a big question which has dogged major junior hockey and that is when are the Moose Jaw Warriors and the WHL set to resume play?

On Wednesday afternoon the league announced there will be a full 68 - game schedule with play tentatively set to resume Friday October 2nd.

The start of the 2020-2021 campaign is dependent upon approval of the six jurisdictions - provincial and state - in the wake of the COVID - 19 pandemic.

In a press release the league stated even if the season cannot commence on the target October 2nd date the WHL is committed to the full 68 game schedule whenever authorities give them the go ahead to reconvene play.

The 2019 - 2020 WHL schedule was suspended play on March 12th with intentions to recommence the season. The season was later suspended in its entirety.

The WHL has developed a Return to Play protocol to facilitate discussion on a timely start to the 2020-21 season.

The WHL has appointed special task forces in each of the six jurisdictions to work directly with government and health authorities to ensure the health and safety of WHL players, staff, officials, and fans are a top priority in the Return to Play protocol.

The outcome of these discussions with government authorities will ultimately determine the start date for the 2020-21 WHL Regular Season.

Beimg a spectator driven league the WHL is also working with government and health authorities in each jurisdiction on the level of spectator capacities that will be permitted in each WHL Club arena facility.

The WHL is a spectator-driven league and the welcoming back of WHL fans is vital to a successful return to hockey for all 22 WHL member Clubs.