Interstate Ice Hockey Competition Suspended In 7 Northeast States

A policy enacted last week by Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont suspending interstate competitions for public and private schools and youth ice hockey has been adopted by six other states in the northeast, in an effort to combat spread of the coronavirus.

A joint statement released Thursday by the governors of Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine and New Jersey outlined a regional approach to competition "In response to recent coronavirus outbreaks associated with the conduct of interstate youth hockey activities."

The statement reads, "As case numbers increase in many states across the country, it is critical that neighboring states coordinate a regional approach to limit further community spread of the virus. The seven states will suspend interstate competitions for public and private schools and youth hockey effective this Saturday, November 14, 2020 through at minimum December 31, 2020."

According to the statement, collegiate, professional, or U.S. national team hockey activities will not be affected by the prohibition, but will remain subject to existing health and safety protocols and/or restrictions.

Lamont issued an edict last Thursday which requires athletes to wear masks while playing medium-risk sports in Connecticut, including ice hockey and basketball.

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