The Ontario Hockey League has officially abandoned plans to play a 2020-21 season.
The league made the announcement Tuesday morning following months of attempts to hold games in some capacity.
“We have worked tirelessly with the Province and the Chief Medical Officer of Health for the past year on different scenarios and different windows of opportunity, but the reality is the conditions in Ontario have never been right to start and complete an uninterrupted, safe opportunity for players to showcase their skills,” stated David Branch, OHL Commissioner.
Scott Abbott, owner of the North Bay Battalion, says the decision to forgo the season was painful.
“The decision, appropriate as it is in the circumstances, hits hard, especially given what we felt were solid indications of an improved and exciting team that we would have put on the ice,” Abbott said. “But we must prioritize the health and safety of players, staff, families and the public.”
Adam Dennis, General Manager of the Battalion, says the news is tough to hear.
“The past year has been challenging for all players, staff and families of those involved within our league. We appreciate the league’s efforts behind the scenes and understand the challenges they faced throughout their ongoing talks with the government,” said Dennis. “At this point, we’ll begin to focus our energy on returning next season and hope everyone can stay safe and healthy throughout these trying times.”
There has not been an OHL game played in over a year since the league suspended play on March 11, 2020.
Tentative return-to-play dates were agreed upon between the government and league, with provincial COVID-19 restrictions cancelling each attempt.
