The Clippers were scheduled to start the regular season on Dec. 4 but a provincial health order has pushed back the beginning of the 32 game BCHL campaign. (Gary Dorland)

By Dan Marshall

On Hold

BCHL season delayed until at least Dec. 8

Nov 23, 2020 | 9:08 AM

NANAIMO — The BCHL has confirmed a delay to the start of the 32 game regular season.

It means the Nanaimo Clippers will not hit the ice until at least Dec. 8.

The league had initially announced a Dec. 4 start date but no official schedule was released.

After new orders came from the province on Thursday, Nov. 19, some exhibition contests around the league were cancelled. The Clippers had already finished their preseason which culminated in an Island Cup championship.

When the season starts is based on when current travel restrictions put in place by the Provincial Health Office are lifted.

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BCHL commissioner Chris Hebb stated having the safest possible season is the priority.

“If the PHO extends their current restrictions beyond Dec. 7, we have the option of moving the start date to after the holidays, but it is our intention to begin play once the current order expires.”

The league is planning to take it’s usual hiatus for Christmas.

This year players leaving their teams will have to adhere to travel guidelines and restrictions which include going into isolation for 14 days prior to re-joining their club.

The Clippers are still able to conduct practices under the current provincial health guidelines.

dan@nanaimonewsnow.com

On twitter: @danmarshall77