WHL Delays Start of Season Once Again

The Western Hockey League hoped to start its 2020-21 season on Jan. 8. Not surprisingly, it isn’t going to happen. The WHL announced Tuesday night that it will once again delay the start of the 2020-21 regular season. No new date has yet been set and according to a written statement, “following further consultation with regional health authorities, the Board of Governors will meet in January to consider potential start dates.” “With public health restrictions in place across Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest U.S., the WHL is not in a position to start its Regular Season as planned on January 8,” the statement continued. “The WHL will continue to work with Government and Health Authorities in our region as we consider schedule options for the 2020-21 WHL Regular Season. The WHL have developed a series of protocols in consultation with health authorities that are necessary to protect WHL players, staff, officials, and fans during the COVID-19 pandemic.” WHL Commissioner Ron Robinson said the league would still attempt to have, officially, a 20-21 season. In the meantime, a number of WHL players will continue to be allowed to play in various provincial Jr. A leagues such as the MJHL. “We continue to make every effort to get our season started, but our first priority has always been the health and safety of our players, and everyone associated with the WHL,” said Robison. “Given the public health restrictions that are currently in effect, we are not in a position to determine a new target date for our season. We will continue to consult with health authorities to determine when it is safe and responsible to get our season started.”