Announcement: Return to Hockey Framework
This past week, the OHF announced a more detailed Return to Hockey Framework.
The OHF has outlined a more detailed plan of Stage 3 within their Return to Hockey Framework. A full copy of the OHF Return to Hockey Framework is available on the OHF website.
Please be aware that any decision to return to hockey is made in accordance with the Ontario Government, Durham Health, and Hockey Canada Safety Protocols. This will allow for players to return to hockey safely, when they are ready to do so
The OHF document further defines Stage 3 of the Return to Hockey Framework and outlines some key points-of-interest to our membership:
OHF Stage 3 - Return to Hockey Framework
- Registration will commence in early September
- No tryouts for the formation of teams
- Members (OMHA) to determine approach for tiered structure based on category of participation last year
- Will include game play with rules that focus on removing deliberate and prolonged contact
- The boundaries of the Public Health Unit (Durham Region) will be a guideline for competition between teams
We are currently in Stage 3a until August 31st; we then move to Stage 3b on September 1st. Registration for the season will begin sometime after September 1st.
We still have many questions, but we anticipate an announcement from the OMHA within the coming weeks that will provide some more clarity. We are in constant contact with the Town of Ajax regarding access to ice and protocols being implemented to support the OHF guidelines and Durham Health as it relates to the facilities. It is important to note that the progression through the phases will be dependent on our local health unit and advice and direction from the Provincial Government.
We will provide updates as soon as we have received information on hockey and how it will look for the upcoming season.
Once again, your patience and consideration is appreciated as we navigate through these next few months.