Hockey Canada has informed USA Hockey that it will not participate in the annual World Junior Summer Showcase scheduled for July 24 through August 1, 2020.
While many have criticized me for writing about what Hockey Canada and junior hockey will look like for the 2020-2021 season, this cancelation should make everyone take notice. The event is two months from now and they have already canceled.
In and interview with NHL.com John Vanbiesbrouck, USA Hockey assistant executive director of hockey operations and the general manager of the United States National Junior Team, said;
“We’ve heard from Canada and they will not be able to come, but we’re checking in every two weeks with Sweden and Finland,” Vanbiesbrouck said. “Obviously things are different in Sweden than they are in Finland. There’s also the whole restriction part on international travel which looks like it’s going to be lifted sometime in June, so we’re just staying on top of everything from what’s going on newsworthy to bringing it back internally. That’s how we’re going to go. We’re not going to change anything.”
Hockey Canada communications coordinator Spencer Sharkey confirmed that Canada will not be participating stating;
“Unfortunately, with all the uncertainty right now, it is not a viable option for us.”
What now for Hockey Canada? What now for junior hockey in Canada? With this cancelation, how likely is it that everything will move ahead as it has in the past with import players when Canada wont leave their country to play?
Come back later for more on the COVID-19 impact.
Joseph Kolodziej – Adviser
