On Monday, November 23, 2020, the mandated an 8-week pause for all Connecticut youth, club, and high school sports until January 19th.  Here is a link to Governor Lamont's announcement.

The rinks are open but under restrictions of only being allowed to operate with a maximum of four (4) people (example: 3 players and 1 coach) on the ice.  Given that the cost of ice ranges from $400 - $500 per hour, this is not sustainable from a financial perspective.  Hockey is a very expensive sport under normal conditions, and most families will not be able to afford the increased cost associated with the limitations.

The Governor's decision has a sizable impact on the players, but perhaps the more significant impact is the irreversible effects on some of the privately-owned rinks in the area.  A scenario could exist where some rinks are no longer operational after the 8-week shutdown. 

Over the last four days, local rink owners have been meeting to discuss their options. Today, the rink owners sent a letter to Governor Lamont (click here to read) that outlines the safety precautions that have been implemented and research that supports the ability to continue to play safely.  The hockey community needs to support the rink owners given the significant financial burden they will face if the 8-week shutdown stays.  Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and other states opted for a two-week shutdown and are now fully operational playing in-state competition.

How can we support our rink partners?  Take a look:   

Support Your Local Rink Campaign
The rinks are asking area hockey associations to reach out to their membership to ask for their help in doing the following three steps: 

• Player writes a letter to Governor Lamont, stating, “LET ME PLAY.”
• Parents call Governor Lamont’s office at 860-566-4840. His office hours are Monday through Friday, 9 am-5 pm.
• Parents write a letter to Governor Lamont and mail it to 210 Capitol Ave Hartford, CT 06106
  • When mailing your letter, be sure to include a hockey puck stating "LET ME PLAY."
  • (38) youth hockey organizations in the State of CT have done everything we are asked to do, including limiting spectators, completing health surveys, and wearing masks while playing the game (despite the CDC guidance that this is extremely dangerous).   

Thanks for coming together as a community and helping us support the rinks.