It doesn’t appear as though there’s any change in plans when it comes to the approach of the SIJHL and their American franchises.
With news of the federal government extending the COVID-19 travel restrictions at all Canada-United States land crossings until January 21st, Commissioner Darrin Nicholas released a statement that stresses the extension does present an insurmountable obstacle to having full participation in the schedule of all seven Superior International Junior Hockey League teams.
“The league is continuing to monitor the border situation quite closely and are in regular communication with our US-based teams. We recognize that the window for them to have any meaningful participation in our 2020-21 schedule is closing quickly but want to afford them every opportunity to remain part of the season. The commitment the Norskies and Lumberjacks have shown to their communities and the SIJHL is exceptionally strong, and there is no pressure being applied to them in terms of a timeline to make any decisions. Nobody aside from the leadership groups of those two teams will be making a determination as to whether or not they proceed, and a league announcement will follow if and when that happens.”
The schedule continues with the five Canadian-based teams as well as the recently announced additions of the Kenora Thistles and Thunder Bay Kings.
Nicholas notes if the Norskies and Lumberjacks are able to integrate into the season, a winning percentage formula will be used to determine regular season standings given there will be an imbalanced schedule as a result.
