WHL brass prepares for Oct. 2 return to play

By Medicine Hat News on June 18, 2020.

The Western Hockey League has announced a return to play protocol for the 2020-21 season, targeting Friday, Oct. 2 as a potential start date.

The news came following the league’s annual general meeting Wednesday, with a release stating special task forces have been appointed in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, B.C., Oregon and Washington “to work with government and health authorities to ensure the health and safety of WHL players, staff officials and fans.”

The release adds that the Oct. 2 start date is contingent on approvals from respective government and health authorities, but the WHL still intends on completing a full 68-game season regardless of when that campaign begins.

“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,” reads the release. “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.”

The WHL also announced a new streaming service set to launch with the 2020-21 season in partnership with the CHL – combining the WHL, Ontario Hockey League and Quebec Major Junior Hockey League into the same service.

WHL commissioner Ron Robison will speak to the media Thursday regarding the league’s return to play protocol.