Minor hockey is expected to continue to the end of the month. (submitted photo/Brad Johns)

By Derek Cornet

staying active

La Ronge Minor Hockey continues with COVID safeguards in place

Feb 4, 2021 | 2:17 PM

Board members with La Ronge Minor Hockey have been working hard to ensure a safe season for their players.

That’s according to club president Brad Johns, who said the players themselves have been a huge component of this season’s success as they all wear masks, socially distance and follow the rules when going on and off the ice. They have also been hosting practices with no more than eight players.

“Despite some of the challenges, we felt it was imperative to have players continue practicing for their physical and mental well-being,” he said. “Some normalcy and social interaction can go a long way in a challenging time like this pandemic.”

Johns explained the Saskatchewan Health Authority and local public health officials have provided numerous guidelines and procedures to follow that have allowed the club to continue practicing safely and provide the opportunity to continue to enjoy the sport of hockey. Currently all players between U7 and U15 are actively taking part in practices.

The number of participants in slight down this season as Johns noted fewer people are moving to La Ronge for school and work during the pandemic. The club is accessing the Jonas Roberts Memorial Community Centre (JRMCC) and Mel Hegland Uniplex of which facility staff have also been busy keeping the buildings clean.

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“With the ice out at the JRMCC on February 19, we are awaiting a decision from the Town of La Ronge to when the ice at the Mel Hegland Uniplex will come out,” he said. “We are hoping to continue practicing the end of February at least for those players that wish to continue.”

Johns added the board will be meeting soon to discuss the possibility of a rebate on registration fees for the season and more information should be available by the end of the month.

“We would just like to reiterate the appreciation we have for our coaches, volunteers, facilities and players,” he said. “Despite a challenging year, our players have had fun and improved their skills in a safe setting. We are hopeful that we will be back to our regular hockey ways next season.”

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derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno