The Thunder Bay Bandits remain optimistic that they’ll be able to host the inaugural Battle In the Bay this summer.
The Lakehead Junior Hockey League put together the tournament venture to help support minor hockey in the city and keep kids active in the off-season. The event is planned to feature Under-11, Under-13, Under-15, Under-18 and Under-22 divisions for both boys and girls.
General Manager Dave Reginato says all the safety precautions will be taken inside the Fort William First Nation Arena.
“We’ve had discussions with all the necessary parties, including Hockey Northwestern Ontario in terms of following Hockey Canada’s Return to Play plan,” Reginato notes. “When it comes to measures at the rink there will be screening at the doors, players will only be allowed to enter fifteen minutes beforehand and must be dressed. If a player develops symptoms they must notify their coach and not come on site.”
The general manager notes there will be contact tracing sheets available should any cases arise.
Reginato adds the rink is very accommodating with ice time, but they are prepared to scrap the idea if necessary.
“I’ve had a lot of emails from parents asking me if this is still going, and I assure them that yes we’re still going forward,” Reginato says. “That said, our drop dead date would probably be the end of July, if we can’t get it done, we’ll cancel and refund the money. We’re hopeful that we won’t get to that point.”
More on the event can be found here.
