Revelstoke Grizzlies' players for the 2020-2021 hockey season.
Image Credit: FACEBOOK/Revelstoke Grizzlies
January 30, 2021 - 10:15 AM
The Revelstoke Grizzlies, part of the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League, will not be playing this season after players contracted COVID-19.
Revelstoke’s Junior B hockey team decided to cancel its season after multiple players tested positive, and made the announcement yesterday, Jan. 29.
On Jan. 26, the Grizzlies became aware of a potential COVID-19 contact that occurred through one of the player’s place of employment, according to a statement issued by the team.
The club then consulted with Interior Health and ceased play, instituting a mandatory self-isolation for both the players and staff.
The player in question tested positive for the virus and other team members also tested positive, according to the statement.
“In light of having now received additional positive test results, we have had to make another hard decision. It is with a heavy heart that we have ceased all operations for the 2020/2021 KIJHL season,” said Ryan Parent, Grizzlies head coach and general manager, in the statement.
The KIJHL season is currently on pause until at least Feb. 5, per provincial health orders. The league will make an announcement for the current season at that time, according to the statement.
READ MORE: New COVID-19 restrictions force KIJHL to pause season
“The KIJHL fully supports the Grizzlies’ decision to end their season due to these positive test results,” said league commissioner Jeff Dubois, in the statement.
“We applaud the Grizzlies organization for acting in the best interest of the health and safety of their athletes, staff, billets and community and we wish those who have tested positive for COVID-19 a safe and speedy recovery."
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