POWELL RIVER, B.C. (March 13, 2021) – The Powell River Kings have officially elected to opt in to the BC Hockey League’s (BCHL) 2020-21 season.
This decision comes after the BCHL Board of Governors approved a condensed season on Friday after the Provincial Health Office (PHO) accepted the league’s proposal for a safe return to play under its COVID-19 Safety Plan.
The condensed season will begin the first week of April. The league will operate in a “pod” model where three to four teams will play each other in different locations across the province. A full schedule will be released in the coming weeks along with details on the pod locations.
“The biggest thing was to get our players on the ice and playing games this season.It’s a lot of information to process and a lot of communication. We appreciate all the work the BCHL has put in to be able have an opportunity to play games,” commented general manager Chad van Diemen. “ I am looking forward to seeing our players finally play and, for some, being able to put a Kings jersey on for the first time. It is a big honour for our team the represent the city of Powell River and we are thankful for the opportunity.”
The Kings will temporarily relocate operations for the duration of the pod season. As part of the BCHL’s COVID-19 Safety Plan, players will undergo a two-week quarantine period before travelling to the designated pod location.
“It’s been a long journey to get approved and numerous months of practicing and not having the chance to play earlier in the exhibition season,” says head coach Brock Sawyer. “We will do what we have to do to follow proper protocols, anything to have a safe return-to-play. I am excited for our players and their families. We are grateful for this opportunity to compete and have some fun as well.”
