For the first time in it’s 69-year history, the South Eastern Manitoba Hockey League has co-champions.

Commissioner Tom Vatrt stated in a news release today that in light of Hockey Manitoba’s decision to cancel all sanctioned games and programs for the remainder of the 2019-2020 hockey season due to growing concerns regarding COVID-19, the SEMHL is proud to announce co-winners of the 2019-2020 League Championship. The Rocky Mountain Equipment Trophy will be awarded to the league finalists, the Warren Mercs and Portage Islanders.

Vatrt added that the playoff MVP trophy will not be awarded to one individual. Instead the league will take this opportunity to dedicate the trophy to the many volunteers that make such a difference in the game.

The Mercs and Islanders were set to start game three of the best-of-seven final Thursday night in Warren when Hockey Manitoba announced the cancellation of the season.