MLHU Order 22 Update - Minor Hockey is still on - the smiles of our players can continue
Submitted By MD Director on Friday, October 23, 2020
The local Minor Hockey Presidents had productive call today with the MLHU and Dr. Chris Mackie regarding the MLHU Order 22 which comes into affect October 24, 2020. They were receptive and made accommodations to align with the existing GLHA RTP framework (an updated version (Ver. 6) was released today - and posted in 'Team Documents').
The same protocols that our teams have been using will continue and the same teams/cohorts can stay intact. There are some changes and everyone involved needs to be aware of these changes that will come into effect on Saturday October 24 at 12:01am.
- The maximum permitted on an arena ice pad is 25 people and that includes coaches/instructors and officials. When there are more than 12 total on the ice at once they must be split into 2 groups no larger than 12 including coaches at each end zone and the groups must be separated from each other by a 3m buffer.
- Coaches must now wear masks at all times in the arena - this is a non-starter and MUST be followed.
- If a player removes their Helmet they must mask up. Their helmet needs to remain on while traveling from ice surface into the dressing room.
- 4v4 Scrimmages Continue! With up to 12 on the ice at one time (includes coaches/ refs so 4v4 with goalies)
- No body contact between players during play
- When players are not participating on the ice they must be separated by 2 meters on the benches and dressing rooms. The City is working to highlight spaces.
The City will continue to allow one parent/guardian per player to stay and spectate. Please respect and maintain the 2 meter distance rule. If this is not adhered to the City will not hesitate to remove the parents from the arenas so that the players are still able to participate.
Players and coaches are to remember to always use the Javelin App for screening prior to arriving at the arena. Parents entering the rink are to complete the City waiver.
All other City of London arena protocols such as arriving 15 minutes prior to ice time, health screening prior to entering, hand sanitize when entering, players waiting in rooms until the ice is ready, no outside food or drink and wearing a mask while in the arena remain in place. Please review the City guidelines if you are unsure.
NOTE: MLHU and GLHA will be inspecting arenas for non-compliance. There will be significant fines for non-compliance. These fines are a LARGE sum of money and we do not want to have to shut down minor hockey this season due to incurring fines from infractions.
We appreciate the effort and cooperation of all of our Conveners, Coaches, Board members and players & parents. The MHLU has walked back from their original stance due to the extensive protocols in the GLHA RTP but we need to respect their concerns and continue to be diligent by adhering to all related protocols and guidelines.
We can all ensure that our Phase 1 of this season goes smoothly by working together like all great teams do!