*These guidelines are subject to change with any new information or updates from the government on COVID-19 protocols. We will provide another update prior to the start of our 2020/21 Fall/Winter League that will start on Tuesday, October 13th, 2020.
True North Hockey Canada will strive to provide a safe, fun, and fair environment for all participants during these unique times.
Please review our guidelines & procedures below for the upcoming Preseason League starting on Tuesday, September 8th, 2020.
All players MUST complete the General and COVID-19 online waivers. No player will be permitted to participate in a game unless these forms have been completed online. Paper waivers will not be accepted at the rink except for substitute goalies.
Team Reps are to inform their players on making sure these guidelines are being followed.
Building Entry/Exit
At this time, only players and staff will be allowed into the facilities. There will be a separate entrance and exit for each ice surface. Do not enter the facility until 20 minutes before your scheduled game time and vacate your assigned dressing room no later than 20 minutes upon the conclusion of your game. It is recommended that players arrive at the facility dressed to play to their respective comfort level. Face coverings are mandatory at all times inside the facility except during the time frame of their scheduled game.
Equipment
The use of Hockey Sticks and any form of player equipment will be limited to just the individual players. Shared equipment will not be permitted. Players must have their gloves on at all times during play. In the event of a lost glove, the player must retrieve their glove(s) immediately.
Hygiene, Hand Washing, Touching Face, Laundering
Players must practice proper hygiene, wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol), and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette. Our Facilities will provide hand washing and/or hand sanitizer stations at entrance & throughout facility. All clothing, uniforms, and gear must be washed/cleaned/disinfected between each use.
Dressing Rooms and Bench Areas
Enhanced and frequent cleaning and disinfection of Team Dressing rooms and bench areas will be completed after every game. Use of dressing room showers and washrooms will not be permitted. Physical distancing must be adhered to in the dressing rooms and each room will have a maximum capacity based on the size of the room. When a dressing room has reached its safe capacity, “overflow” dressing rooms and/or space will be offered in other areas of the facility.
Rink Entry
Each team will have a designated area to enter and leave the playing surface before and after each game.
Water Bottles
Players will be required to bring their own water bottles to all games to help to reduce transmission risk. Individuals will take their own water bottles home each night for cleaning and sanitation. Recycling bins will be made available for disposable water bottles.
Game Play
Player Conduct
We remind all players that we are still in a pandemic. Players must follow specific guidelines regarding unnecessary engagement and contact with opposing players.
The league will be taking all the necessary measures to protect game referees during circumstances involving player engagements and altercations.
The league’s goal is to minimize any unnecessary physical contact and verbal engagement that involves close contact with opposing players and referees.
Any situation with two or more players in a VERBAL ALTERCATION will be addressed by the referees in the following manner:
All puck battles are to be “stick on puck”. Any situation with two or more players that involves UNNECESSARY CONTACT will be penalized according to existing rules but called much tighter than they might have been before COVID-19
Have fun and play safe.