(File photo/paNOW Staff)

By Jeff D’Andrea

If hockey games aren’t returned soon, P.A. Minor Hockey will end season at end of February

Jan 29, 2021 | 3:27 PM

If hockey games aren’t permitted soon in the province under COVID-19 guidelines, the Prince Albert Minor Hockey Association (PAMHA) won’t have much choice but to end the season at the end of February.

Like all group sports in the province, hockey games have been suspended since Nov. 25, 2020 by the Government of Saskatchewan. The suspensions, along with the rest of the guidelines, were extended to Feb. 19 earlier this week.

PAMHA media relations coordinator Brad Toporowski said the board decided in Thursday’s meeting that if nothing changes and games are not re-introduced soon, minor hockey will end their season at the end of February.

“That’s the tentative plan right now if nothing changes…If games are then an option, well then that would be discussed at the board level, again. And we’ll make that decision again,” Toporowski said.

Currently, minor hockey teams in the province are allowed to practice with eight socially-distanced players at a time, and two coaches.

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As a result of all the shortened and suspension-filled season, Toporowski said the minor hockey association will grant refunds of 25 per cent of the registration fees, minus insurance and facility fees that have been paid. Families can expect a refund of $100 to $164 per player, depending on what age group they play in.

There is a growing desire across the province for hockey games to return. On Jan. 19, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said he had a Return to Play petition on his desk with 10,000 signatures.

Toporowski, who is also the head coach of the Prince Albert SFS U13 Greyhounds, said the board appreciates the desire to get back on the ice, but there is only so much the minor hockey association can do—as they are at the mercy of the government.

“You understand the severity of the situation, so it’s understandable. But at the same point, it’s disheartening as well to not have the kids playing games,” Toporowski said. “We understand the situation as a board and it’s unfortunate.

“Right now, I think the coaches and volunteers are doing the best they can, with what we’re provided as far as restrictions and how many players can be on the ice. That’s the most unfortunate part.”

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Jeff.dandrea@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @jeff_paNOW