Hockey Canada cancels all activities ‘until further notice’ amid COVID-19 pandemic beginning Friday

The hockey world in Canada, and Saskatchewan, will be halted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to a press release by Hockey Canada, the decision has been made to “cancel all Hockey Canada-sanctioned activities, including our national championships, until further notice, effective Friday.”

The release follows a statement on behalf of Hockey Canada from CEO Tom Renney and President and COO Scott Smith.

“Without question, this is 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.”

The decision was made after consultation with Hockey Canada membership, their chief medical officer and public health officials.

“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,” the release stated.

The Saskatchewan Hockey Association confirmed this news affects all levels of hockey in the province.

All Saskatchewan Hockey Association sanctioned events will be cancelled as of Friday.

This includes SHA Provincial Playoffs, Sask First Female Futures, Sask First Female Jamborees, Sask First Female and Sask First Midget Tournaments.

SHA staff will make the appropriate refunds to families registered for those programs.

The SHA said there will be plans made for those programs that extend into the next season and the selection and evaluation of provincial teams but is unsure what those plans would look like.