Hello IGHHA Members.
As most of you are aware the Governor has extended his executive order requiring hockey to remain on pause with practices resuming on January 4th. The Governor has not announced when games will resume, however MN Hockey speculates games will resume no later than January 18th. We will provide additional information on game and tournament restrictions as that information becomes available.
Additional COVID restrictions will be in place when we return to the rink on January 4th. MN Hockey will publish all guidelines next week and IGHHA will ensure this information is distributed to membership. Here are some of the new/revised restrictions that have already been communicated:
- Participants must arrive fully dressed (excluding helmet, skates, and gloves) and equipment bags cannot be brought into the rink
- Exception for goalies who can arrive ½ dressed with remaining gear in an equipment bag
- Entry/exit of the facility needs to occur within 10 minutes of the scheduled ice time
- No Locker Room Use
- VMCC seating plan will be communicated prior to our return to the rink
- 1 parent will be allowed per participant for the Mite/U8 and younger levels to assist with equipment
- No dryland training in arenas
With the continued pause on youth sports, Associations cannot sanction team events until January 4th. Coaches, Managers, Coordinators, and Board members are not able to schedule any in person team events or gatherings. Distribution of team apparel and other administrative logistics are allowed as long as they do not require family gatherings.
MN Hockey has approved a season extension until the end of March. District, Regional, and State tournaments are planned and will be rescheduled to align with the season extension. Additional information will be provided as available.
The City of IGH continues to prepare outdoor rinks with the intent to be up and running the day after Christmas, weather permitting! Although Associations and Coaches cannot arrange outdoor team activities prior to January 4th, we do encourage families to take advantage of the outdoor ice once available.
Volunteer commitment and registration fee adjustments are anticipated, however additional information is required to finalize. More details will be provided once we have a better understanding of all impacts associated with the extended pause.
Thanks for your continued patience as we await our return to the rink January 4th! As the holidays approach, please ensure you do your best to follow the MDH guidelines related to social gatherings so we give our participants the best opportunity to make a safe return to the rink on January 4th.
Happy Holidays!
Joe Tuccitto