OHF & OHL STATEMENT ON U15 PROGRAM OF EXCELLENCE IN RESPONSE TO CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)
Date: Mar, 17, 2020 12:00 PM EDT
We as the Ontario Hockey Federation and Ontario Hockey League support the Hockey Canada Statement quoted below.
“ HOCKEY CANADA STATEMENT IN RESPONSE TO CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)
CALGARY, Alta. – The following is a statement on behalf of Hockey Canada from Tom Renney, chief executive officer, and Scott Smith, president and chief operating officer, on the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
“Without question, this an unprecedented period of difficulty for the sports world. The health and safety of all participants in sport, including players, coaches, staff, officials, fans, family, volunteers and the general public, is of the utmost importance to Hockey Canada.
After much consultation with the Hockey Canada membership, our chief medical officer and public health officials, the Hockey Canada Board of Directors has made the decision to cancel all Hockey Canada-sanctioned activities, including our national championships, until further notice, effective Friday, March 13, 2020.
We recognize the tremendous effort that has been put forth all year by individuals across the country as they participate in Canada’s game. Although it is difficult to process the hockey season ending abruptly, we feel this is the best course of action in order to do our part in keeping our country safe.” ”
As such, all 2020 U15 Program of Excellence events will be cancelled.
We do not take this decision lightly. It is important to remember that at the heart of this is the health and well-being of all the players, coaches, officials, team staff members, volunteers, and family members involved. The support and dedication that we have had from the community in the promotion and endorsement of this event is very much appreciated and has not gone unnoticed.
Further information will follow as it becomes available.