We are getting closer to seeing the Portage Terriers return to the ice for the upcoming season.

It was announced earlier this week that the Manitoba Junior Hockey League’s “Return to Play – Phase I Guidelines” have been approved by Provincial Health Authorities – Return to Sport Review Committee and Sport Manitoba. This will allow teams to do what they normally would in the summer, including training/practice sessions and prospect/development camps.

You can read the full guidelines for Phase I here.

The guidelines were created shortly after the province began lifting restrictions for indoor and outdoor sporting events. On March 12th, the league cancelled the playoffs as well as the Centennial Cup due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Centennial Cup was set to be played in Portage la Prairie in May.

MJHL Director of Operations Kevin Saurette announced the league’s targeted start date for the 2020-21 season is Friday, September 25th. He notes the health and safety of everyone involved is the league’s number one priority and they continue to work with Hockey Canada, Hockey Manitoba, Sport Manitoba and the necessary Provincial Health Authorities.