Return to Play Update
Submitted By WGMHA on Friday, September 25, 2020
We are pleased to share that OWHA has this afternoon provided information regarding modified game play. Full details can be found
OWHA_MODIFIED_RULES_September_25_2020
In general what does this mean? After a two week development period we will be able to incorporate modified game play into practices and move toward Extended Group (external to our Association) play.
For our Rep Training Groups:
Our process for moving from Training Groups to Playing Groups will continue as per our message to Rep families on September 24th, 2020 with the exception that these Playing Groups will now accelerate and become the rostered groups immediately. WGMHA has been working closely with other associations in Waterloo Region, Brantford and Guelph to create Extended Groups in anticipation of being able to play. While we continue to work through the details of scheduling, we are anticipating modified game play to begin the week of October 12th.
For our House League Training Groups:
The formation of training groups is underway. By October 5, 2020 families will be notified which training groups players are going to be in. Parent/Player meetings have been scheduled by age group for the week of October 5th, 2020. Once the Parent/Player Meeting has happened, ice will be scheduled. Coaches will be working through the two week development period, followed by scrimmages and then onto modified game play. More details will be shared at the Parent/Player meetings.
We do want to note that the OWHA leads their Sept 25, 2020 modified rules with the following note on
Physical Contact. We need to continue following this newly published guidance with in-practice scrimmaging, physical distancing - and as well obey all facility rules regarding the use of benches and numbers of people on benches.
The Government Laws state, “Team sports may only be practised or played within the facility if they do not allow for physical contact between players or if they have been modified to avoid physical contact between the players.”
It is important to recognize that the Ontario Government has permitted competition with the express understanding that rules have been modified to eliminate intentional physical contact. Playing the game of hockey without intentional physical contact represents a significant shift from traditional hockey and, as such, it is the equal and collective responsibility of all participants (players, team staff, officials) to create and adhere to the gameplay structure that eliminates intentional physical contact.
Please continue to check back on the Ravens website
www.waterlooravens.com for updates.
Great news for a Friday afternoon!
