The North American Hockey League announced it’s “intended” return to play plans back in late July. Making the statement that it would release its schedule on September 1st, 2020.
Since that time the COVID-19 pandemic has forced many States to make changes in how they approach or consider allowing reopening of hockey games being played.
The NAHL has had two teams formally take the year off, and three others are being forced to temporarily relocate.
It is rumored that two or more NAHL teams are now also considering taking the year off.
It also looks as though the Mid West Division of the NAHL will not begin play until November. This information was obtained in a well written and detailed letter issued by the Janesville Jets to its supporters.
The Mid West Division contains the Alaska based teams that will be temporarily relocating to Minnesota to begin the season.
The Mid West Division also contains the Springfield Illinois team that at this time is under the Illinois rules regarding a return to play. Those Illinois terms of return to play are not very detailed as they relate to junior hockey and this is a problem for the team.
On the East Coast, New York State is not allowing any fans at any sporting events. Likely effecting the Jamestown Rebels. This would effect all the other teams in the East Division.
Throughout the entire league, attendance remains a question mark. Who can have fans? Who can not? What are the safety measures being put in place? Where are the real player safety measure regarding testing and other items?
All of these questions need to be answered. How the NAHL does this, I don’t know. While its only one day past their announced plan to release the schedule, it certainly makes all the rumors of more teams going dark more plausible.
Joseph Kolodziej – Adviser
