1. viaSport’s move to Phase 3 Progressive Loosening; this cohort model moved the sport from distanced drills to competition with contact. This changes our occupancy limits by no longer requiring physical distancing on the field of play. This means we no longer need to limit the number of players on the ice itself to 20, but of course we still must ensure the capacity for the field of play does not exceed our ability to provide physical distancing off the field of play (some facilities can accommodate a user group of 50 while others can accommodate only 35).
2. definition of field of play now includes benches and penalty boxes, so no physical distancing required;
3. use of masks in dressing rooms now enables a higher capacity, however we still recommend providing 2m distance between players where possible.
4. updated PHO Order on Gatherings and Events: we no longer need to retain user group contact lists, strict requirements for separate access/egress and washrooms for event groups
5. Spectators: While the PHO Order could be interpreted to allow a spectator group of up to 50, we are not allowing spectators for 2 reasons: the Order has not been clarified (we are working together with viaSport to seek clarity from the PHO), but primarily because the provision of spectators significantly complicates for municipalities getting the game back in a safe way. Spectator groups require separate access, washrooms, distancing, contact list, no contact whatsoever with the hockey group, and other considerations. The task force and contributing members agree that as a sector we will refuse spectators until as a whole we are ready to welcome them. At this point in the re-start and pandemic progression, spectators are a complication we aren’t prepared for.