SIX NATIONS — On September 14, an update submitted by Alisha Anderson read that the Six Nations Minor Hockey Association has decided to cancel the oncoming season with the health and safety of the community in mind.
“With the 2021/22 Hockey Season approaching Six Nations Minor Hockey Executive is saddened to announce that they will be cancelling the 2021/22 hockey season. The community and youth were at the forefront of our decision to keep everyone as safe as possible during these unprecedented times,” reads the statement.
“SNMHA was hopeful of being able to proceed with a season however, with the announcement of the mandated OMHA Vaccination Policy amongst other barricades and restrictions that arose, this will not allow us to effectively have a season. Our organization does not have the capacity to maintain or adhere to the restrictions that have been put in place within our community.
SNMHA is also hopeful of being able to have a regular season next year and would like to encourage those interested in coaching or have certifications expiring to complete these certifications that are offered on the OMHA website. Our association will be actively engaged in offering development/skills camps for the youth of the community when we are able to do so to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle for the youth of the community.”
Meanwhile, the Ontario Minor Hockey Association provided an update last week reading in part: “We’re committed to a return to hockey this fall. All along we have maintained that the safety of our players, coaches, officials, volunteers, staff, families and spectators will be our first priority in our return to the game.
In comparison, the OMHA will be mandating that all eligible participants involved in minor hockey are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 for the upcoming season. All eligible participants are required to be fully vaccinated by October 31, 2021.