WHL Delays Start Of Season To December
The COVID - 19 pandemic led to a suspension of play in the Western Hockey League's (WHL) 2019-2020 season and it has once again had an impact on the league's schedule.
Tentatively announced to restart play on October 2nd the WHL has announced a new tentative league restart date.
The WHL has now scheduled to restart its 2020-2021 season on Friday December 4th.
Despite the late start date the league is still committed to a full 68 regular season games followed by four playoff rounds.
In a news release the WHL said the league is committed to the safety of its fans, players, officials and staff in making the decision.
Although a new season opening date has been announced it is contingent on the WHL receiving necessary approvals from the six provincial/state jurisdictions the league operates in.
At the present time Saskatchewan is not recommending out of province tournament play or hockey games. The other five jurisdictions have the same or similar restrictions in place to help prevent the potential spread of the pandemic.
Regular discussions are going on between the WHL and government and/or health authorities to help ensure the league restarts when it is safe to do so.
Adjusting the start date for its Regular Season allows the WHL additional time to work with government and health authorities to resolve issues.
“Regardless of our start date, the WHL is committed to playing a full Regular Season and Playoffs in 2020-21,” WHL Commissioner Ron Robison said in a statement.
“In our discussions with the government and health authorities, it has become apparent that additional time is required to ensure we can return to play in a safe and responsible manner. Our WHL health and safety protocols have been well received by the health authorities but we have several key issues that we will need to reach a resolution on in the coming months,” Robinson said.
The WHL consists of 22 teams with 17 located in Western Canada and five in the U.S. Pacific Northwest.
The league is highly reliant upon gate admissions.