The Mel Hegland uniplex has been closed to public events since March. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

local arena

Mel Hegland Uniplex to reopen Sept. 18, Cravings leaves concession

Sep 4, 2020 | 11:56 AM

La Ronge’s Mel Hegland Uniplex will be open by Sept. 18.

There are a number of rules, however, the public will need to follow as part of the effort to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. For instance, all rules will need to be followed from the Saskatchewan Health Authority such ensuring frequent hand washing, using hand sanitizer, avoiding touching your mouth, nose and eyes, as well as maintaining a physical distance of six feet at all times.

“Patrons are encouraged to limit time inside the facility and always maintain physical distancing,” the facility user guideline states. “Participants, coaches, officials, volunteers and spectators should try to minimize cheering and whistling as much as possible to control the spread of COVID-19. Refrain from spitting.”

One major change users of the Mel Hegland Uniplex will notice is the departure of Cravings Late Night Food from the concession stand. The owners of the restaurant decided not to re-apply for the space and, according to La Ronge Deputy-Mayor Matthew Klassen, a contract has yet to be signed this year with any food service provider. The Ice Wolves Den is still expected to be open when the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) starts.

There will also be big changes coming when the Ice Wolves are back on the ice. Season ticket holders will be required to use the Ice Wolves main office for games and they will not be permitted access to the side bleachers or front lobby. Washrooms will still be available for the Wolves Den, but the maximum capacity will be set at 30 people.

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“Part of the front bleachers will be blocked off from spectators to sit as it impedes the dressing room space,” the guidelines states. “Wearing a mask is highly recommended for those that are able.”

In regards to La Ronge Minor Hockey and the La Ronge Skating Club, there will be a maximum of 50 people on the ice at one time with 30 spectators. The 50-person maximum includes coaches, staff, instructors, players from both teams and volunteers who can’t maintain a distance of six feet at all times.

Parents or caregivers are also discouraged from assisting their children with their skates. One parent will be permitted to assist, but not if the child can lace their skates themselves.

“Players must not spit [or] blow their nose freely or release any bodily fluid anywhere in the facility due to an extremely high risk of virus transfer,” the guidelines states. “Players benches, penalty boxes and timekeepers box will not be available to use during practices until further notice. Any shared equipment by the activity should be disinfected after use.”

Employees will be required to wear a mask at all times, turn water fountains off and ensure one flow entrances and exits are followed. They will also be required to do additional cleaning and sanitize all high touch areas.

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derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno