The SJHL will continue their playoff schedule, at least for the time being, with three games around the league Friday. (File photo/battlefordsNOW)

By Martin Martinson

Playoffs Continue

SJHL to continue postseason for time being amid COVID-19 epidemic

Mar 12, 2020 | 2:35 PM

The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) is taking part in a conference call Thursday to discuss the future of the SJHL playoffs, in light of the mounting COVID-19 outbreak.

In light of the recent suspension of the National Hockey League (NHL) season, minor leagues across the country will be facing mounting pressure to follow suit.

Other leagues such as the United States Hockey League (USHL), the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) equivalent in the U.S., have already suspended their season.

While things may change moving forward; for the time being, the SJHL playoffs will continue with three games around the league remaining scheduled for Friday.

SJHL president, Bill Chow said via statement Thursday afternoon, “The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League will currently continue its season as planned. The SJHL has provided its teams with several precautionary health advisories to follow regarding [COVID-19] as well as the flu.”

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The statement added “should higher levels of Government or hockey administration issue restrictions, the SJHL will determine what is in the best interest of our players, teams and fans at that time.”

A spokesperson for the league said the SJHL will be, “following the advice of Hockey Canada and the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) and the Executive Board.”

The source said “the Commissioners/Presidents of the 10 member leagues will be hosting a conference call today to further discuss the plan of action from the implications of the global COVID-19 pandemic.”

With Friday’s SJHL schedule remaining intact, the Battlefords North Stars host Game 5 versus the Nipawin Hawks at the Civic Centre in North Battleford, while the Estevan Bruins and Melfort Mustangs will faceoff in Melfort, and the La Ronge Ice Wolves tangle with the Yorkton Terriers in La Ronge.

Friday’s game between the North Stars and Hawks will be broadcast on NAPA Auto Parts North Stars Hockey on 1050 CJNB. The Ultra Print Pregame Show will begin at 7 p.m. with puck drop at 7:30 p.m.

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Martin.Martinson@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: MartyMartyPxP1