Current health restrictions will allow BCHL teams but there will be no games until at least after Feb. 5. (Gary Dorland)

By Dan Marshall

Hope for Hockey

Clippers holding out hope for BCHL season

Jan 8, 2021 | 7:03 PM

NANAIMO – The BCHL continues to wait for the green light on a season.

COVID-19 health restrictions put an end to a scheduled Dec. 1 startup and those same restrictions are in place until Feb. 5.

BCHL Commissioner Chris Hebb said the league will work with the Provincial Health Office on scenarios to start the 2021 campaign in a safe manner.

“Although it is frustrating to have to delay our season start once again, we are in no way, shape or form throwing in the towel on the season.”

Clippers owner Wes Mussio explained the BCHL already has plans in the works to begin play as soon as possible.

no snow

Chances of a white Christmas for Nanaimo 'quite remote'

10h ago

vehicle damage

Over 40 vehicles damaged during late-night Nanaimo vandalism spree

16h ago

rising costs

RDN taxpayers want relief as board grapples with budget

21h ago

“I believe there’s already a schedule set up assuming we get released to play games.”

Mussio is motivated to get in some kind of a season even if that were to happen in the spring or summer.

Most Clipper players have returned from the Christmas break and under Phase 2 protocols they will be working on skills and drills in their on ice sessions.

“It’s almost like a hockey academy,” Mussio said. “We can break down everyone’s skating, stickhandling and shooting and those sorts of things. It gives us a great opportunity for a month or so to hone everyone’s skills. I’m sure it will show on the ice once we get back to playing games.”

dan@nanaimonewsnow.com

On twitter: @danmarshall77