WHL returns to play in B.C. March 26

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – It has been nearly a year since we last saw a Western Hockey League team play a game in B.C., but that will soon change.

The five teams located within our province will play out of bubbles in Kelowna and Kamloops. They start an abbreviated 24-game season on March 26.

BREAKING: The WHL announces the BC based teams will have a 24-game season, beginning on March 26th. @NEWS1130 https://t.co/veKibwLJR7

— Adam Forsythe (@adamforsythe) March 2, 2021

On Monday, Health Minister Adrian Dix that the WHL’s return to play plan in B.C. had been approved.

Players and staff will begin to self quarantine on Saturday before reporting to their bubbles for further quarantining and COVID-19 testing on March 13.

Under the guidance of health officials, any team that receives an in-season positive test of a player of staff member will have to suspend all club activities for 14 days.

Enhanced screening will also take place on a daily basis during the season. No fans will be allowed to be in attendance during the games.

Related articles: 

• Junior hockey leagues in B.C. have new hope season will resume

• Shortened B.C. WHL season may still come to Kamloops, Kelowna

• BC Hockey League calls on province to allow return to gameplay

The WHL season started in Alberta last Friday. The seven clubs from Saskatchewan and Manitoba will begin play in a Regina bubble March 12, while the U.S. Division will start its campaign six days later.