The provincial government will provide junior hockey teams with funding to help weather the pandemic.
Earlier today, the Government of Saskatchewan announced funding to support the province’s Western Hockey League (WHL) teams and the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL).
This funding will help ensure the survival of these leagues and their teams as they deal with the challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our junior hockey teams are a critical part of the cultural fabric and local economies across the province,” Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison said in a press release. “Necessary restrictions due to COVID-19 have had a significant impact on these leagues and their teams and this support will help them address these financial challenges.”
The provincial government will provide $3 million to help WHL teams address revenue shortfalls as a result of COVID-19 restrictions. Each of Saskatchewan’s WHL teams will receive $600,000.
The SJHL will receive $1 million in provincial support.
Provincial government officials continue to work with the WHL, the SJHL and other sports leagues on options for a safe return to play in the future. The WHL intends to play a 24-game season this year.
“COVID-19 has had a devastating impact on our five Saskatchewan-based WHL teams and we commend the Government of Saskatchewan for providing this assistance at such a critical time,” WHL Commissioner Ron Robison said.
“Our WHL Clubs are a vital source of community pride and major economic driver in Swift Current, Moose Jaw, Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon, and the support from the Government of Saskatchewan will not only allow the teams to remain viable but will ensure we can continue to provide a world-class development and educational experience for our players.”
