The KIJHL lost three teams to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Beaver Valley Nighthawks, 100 Mile House Wranglers and Spokane Braves will not play this season.
Spokane will not play, as all teams in the United States can not play if they belong to Canadian based leagues. The border is closed and travel for teams will not be permitted.
Spokane joins the Buffalo Jr. Sabres, and Buffalo Regals who have also taken the year off due to border closure. The border is not expected to open until well into 2021.
Beaver Valley and 100 Mile House are citing a lack of fans and the ability to generate funding as their reasoning for taking the year off.
Also of note, the KIJHL announced start of October is now pushed back to mid November.
KIJHL traditional divisions have been punted and will be replaced by rotating team groups of a maximum of four teams, with a 30 game regular season schedule.
Yes, a 30 game regular season for a cost of $10,000 in some cases.
Games will be played without fans until Provincial Health Authorities approve attendance in buildings. Currently only 50 people are allowed in each arena, which accounts for teams and staff only participating.
While the KIJHL plan gets them back on the ice, it is up for debate if the plan equates to the customers value at nearly $10,000.
Joseph Kolodziej – Adviser
