Good Evening WBL Families,

The WBL Hockey Board received information today from MN Hockey regarding the return to play on January 4th.

Materials will be posted on our association website pertaining to all information we have received from MN Hockey.

Section I: MN Hockey Notice

​We received updates from the State of Minnesota as to what will be allowed upon the return of youth, high school and adult sports on January 4. That guidance is attached and available on the Dept. of Health website. 

Included in the guidance are the following:

• Face coverings are required at all times, including practices and games
• No spectators are allowed with some exceptions
• Pod sizes for practice are 25 with two allowed on the rink at the same time.
• Games may resume Jan. 14
• MDH will be releasing additional guidance that will be in effect once games begin.

Minnesota Hockey is planning to implement Phase 5 of its Return to Play Rules and Guidelines when games begin on January 14. Details on Phase 5 will be released upon further guidance being released by the State of Minnesota.  

Please review the attachments from MN Hockey and MDH regarding these guidelines.

Section II: New WBL COVID protocols

In accordance with new CDC quarantine guidelines, the WBL Board has approved shortened quarantine times under certain circumstances.  COVID team leads will be given all the information regarding these new quarantine guidelines during a meeting on Wednesday, December 30th.

Section III: Mask Information

MN Hockey indicated the regular face masks/gaiters that we have been already been wearing are approved.  There are also masks that attach directly to the helmet/cage, that are available – CCM makes one, for example.  

MN Hockey also indicated the clear face shields do not meet the requirement for a face covering.  

Medical exemptions: Families will need to consult with their family doctor to find out if it would be a problem to wear a mask for your skater(s).  Please work with your team's COVID coordinator, Head Coach and Manager.

We are aware of the demand for masks, please visit any local retailer if you wish to purchase a mask that attaches directly to helmets/cages.  Strauss and others have options that range in price from $10-20.  There are also online retailers that provide reasonable options for our members, if you choose to purchase a new mask.

Section IV: Team Schedules

Team schedules are being updated, as we speak.  You will see these start to fill your team calendars with practice times and locations.

We understand there are many questions with these updates and continue to work with MN Hockey to do what’s very best for our members.  

We continue to relay information from MN Hockey and the MDH and be as transparent as we can.  We, as members, may or may not agree with the circumstances or the protocols being put in place, but we are all doing everything we can to get some semblance of a normal season for these kids.  There is no member above these protocols and, actions of individuals reflect the entire membership and association.

Direct all communication or questions relating to MN Hockey’s decisions or the COVID policies, directly to the board – our non-board and communication volunteers are just relaying information on behalf of the board.  If there are continued difficulties, we will review any violations with our Code of Conduct and will act, as appropriate.

Thank you,

White Bear Lake Hockey Board