Dr. Bonnie Henry didn't sound optimistic BC Hockey League (BCHL) teams will be allowed to play meaningful games anytime soon.
And, the clock is running out.
During her media availability today (March 2), B.C.'s provincial health officer says the consultation process is continuing between her team and the league, but the signs are not good.
"There have been a number of concerns identified, I'll be blunt about that, that need to be addressed before that can happen safely," she said.
"I know timing is an issue, and whether those can be worked out or not, I am not clear."
Timing may refer to a board of governors meetings scheduled for Thursday (March 4), in which the league will decide whether to continue trying to find a solution, or to pull the pin and wait for the fall.
Unlike the WHL, BCHL teams did play a series of exhibition cohort games back in the fall.
Many players have remained with their teams since that time and have been practicing in preparation for any start to a 2020-21 campaign.
However, Henry says plans in place roughly three months ago are no longer adequate.
She says a team of medical professionals, representatives from WorkSafeBC and viaSport have been consulting with the league, and have been providing advice as to where the areas of concern lie.
"Right now, they are continuing to work with the BCHL and our regional teams, because the plan is dispersed around the province in a way that is slightly different that the Western Hockey League."
Recently, on Feb. 18, the league confirmed that 'multiple' Prince George Spruce Kings tested positive for COVID-19, in which players, staff and all close contacts immediately began a 14-day quarantine.
While the WHL was officially approved for two hub cities in Kelowna and Kamloops for its B.C. Division today, the BCHL is proposing five hub cities around the province.
The prospect of having to wait further has also prompted the owner of the Nanaimo Clippers to put his club up for sale.
- with a file from Kyle Balzer, PrinceGeorgeMatters
Reports have circulated of a 5 hub-city format for the Jr. 'A' league in its COVID-19 return-to-play plan, potentially featuring 3 teams in 3 cities & 4 teams in 2 others. Prior to the pause, @SpruceKings were in an exhibition cohort with Cranbrook, Merritt & Trail | #CityOfPG
— Kyle Balzer (@KyleBalzer) March 2, 2021
