Hockey Winnipeg is aware of individuals disregarding and contravening existing Public Health Orders within our Area Associations and around the Province. The Hockey Winnipeg Executive wants to reinforce that these types of behaviors are NOT acceptable and any occurrences following this notice will result in the immediate removal of non-complaint families from Hockey Winnipeg programs, without refund. 

Manitoba’s current Public Health Orders as well as the requirements of Hockey Manitoba’s Return to Play policy are non-negotiable for participation in Hockey Winnipeg sanctioned activities.  Further, to ensure Hockey Winnipeg programs function as intended, we must maintain the confidence of the management of the arenas, municipal and provincial government agencies and community clubs whose facilities are required for our game. When at an indoor arena or on an outdoor community club rink, Hockey Winnipeg needs our families to conduct themselves appropriately in accordance with Public Health Orders and Hockey Manitoba’s Return to Play policy.

We are happy to report most families are following these Orders and Policy, but for the few who are not only unwilling to follow these orders, but when reminded or requested to do so become argumentative, disrespectful and disruptive, this will not be accepted. When asked to adhere to the public health guidelines by facility staff, Hockey Winnipeg Executive members, staff or volunteers you are required to do so. Hockey Winnipeg will now suspend the child of all non-compliant families from participating in all team events for the period covered by 3 games on the first occurrence, and indefinitely on a second occurrence.  Additionally, if a member’s behavior has reached the point of being dangerous or disruptive; law enforcement may be called, and an indefinite suspension delivered on first instance, in the sole discretion of Hockey Winnipeg.   

The Province has instituted Public Health Orders to protect all Manitobans, who are bound by this legislation. This includes Hockey Winnipeg and our Area Associations.  While we understand that some Manitobans may believe these Public Health Orders to be improper, we are required by law to follow them; and do so in the interest of the safety of our players, volunteers and all Manitobans.  We cannot and will not allow our members to disregard the orders. Failure to follow and enforce these Public Health Orders not only risks the health of Manitobans generally, but also risks the shutdown of amateur hockey, including our entire hockey program.

This letter serves as an official warning from Hockey Winnipeg to all families but more specifically to those few families that are in opposition to these endpoints.   If there are any reports of individuals violating Public Health Orders and/or disrespecting our volunteers and facility staff Hockey Winnipeg will issue an immediate 3 game suspension. Should there be a reoccurrence or it is deemed required by Hockey Winnipeg, an indefinite suspension and a ban from all facilities where Hockey Winnipeg operates will follow.

Sincerely,

Hockey Winnipeg

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