We are excited to see everyone back at the rink in the coming weeks.  Here is a summary of the season start dates;

Week of September 7
16/19 Green
16/19 White

Week of September 21
10 Green
10 Black
12 Minor
12 Major
14 Green

Week of September 28
U08
Sand Sharks Clinic
Junior Sharks Clinic

Our primary goal as the season gets underway is the safety of our players and families.  I have been pleased with the diligence and consideration that the hockey community has shown to date regarding keeping everyone safe.  Our national bound teams have participated in two tournaments in the last month, and it's apparent that everyone is focused on keeping players, families, and attendees safe.

Before we get started, we wanted to provide specific guidance related to hockey activities at our home rink and when we travel.  The rinks have 100% control and responsibility for all activities on their properties, and our families must abide by all regulations established by the rink since they are following state mandates. 

COVID Guidelines for Northford Ice Pavilion

Here are the guidelines:

Rink capacity will be reduced in accordance with state guidelines per sheet of ice.

Only one (1) spectator per player

Teams will not enter the rink until 20 minutes before their game/practice time.

Please get partially dressed outside – this means only helmets, skates, and goalie pads should be put on inside of the rink. All other equipment should be put on in the parking lot before entering the rink.

Attendees in the rink will enter through the front of the rink and exit based on the rinks defined traffic patterns.  Attendees should not be exiting through the lobby.

Red rink exits on the side of the building

Blue rink exits in the back of the building

White rink exits near the picnic benches

Masks shall be worn at all times by EVERYONE (players, parents, and family members).   Players do not have to wear masks while on the ice.  Masks should be worn correctly - this means that they must cover both your nose and mouth.

Coaches will be required to wear masks on the bench during games except for a stoppage of play to issue instructions.

Coaches do not have to wear masks during practices but should make every effort to practice social distancing.

Please practice social distancing in the rink lobby while watching a game & in all public areas.  No congregating in the lobby for parents, players & coaches.

Teams will be allowed to use locker rooms. Please make sure your team undresses quickly after their game & leaves the arena asap. There will be no permitted showering in the locker rooms. Locker room assignments can be found on the TVs in the lobby

The rink is sanitizing & cleaning throughout the day including locker room and bench cleaning after every session.

Additional Guidance

1. No one should attend practice if experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms.
2. If a player or family member tests positive for COVID-19, you must notify the Sharks by sending an email to registrar@shorelinesharkshockey.com  AND stay away from all team events until you receive a return to play approval from the Sharks Director of Hockey Operations.  We will observe all HIPPA laws related to privacy.
3. Team Managers are accountable for contacting the "away" rinks when teams travel and communicating any additional regulations.
4. Teams playing in Massachusetts must follow these additional guidelines – Massachusetts COVID REGULATIONS
5. Check out the USA Hockey resources.

If you have any questions or comments, please let me know.  If we are all careful and considerate of each other, we will be able to make it through this trying time. 

Stay safe and see you at the rink!

Ed Rodham
President/Director of Hockey Operations