New Restrictions Impacting Youth Who Just Want To Skate

Several sports organizations are concerned over new provincial COVID-19 restrictions.

The Higgs government announced as of Dec. 13, sports and all other organized activities for children under the age of 12 have been suspended, as well as sporting competitions and games for those 12 and over.

The government decision caught Hockey NB completely off guard, especially with the organization already implementing COVID-19 rules and regulations.

“In addition to the vaccination requirements, we have a lengthy return to hockey document that talks about different safety measures that have been put in place,” said Nic Jansen, executive director, Hockey NB.

“This includes, sanitization, not sharing water bottles, everyone wearing masks in dressing rooms, to coaches wearing masks on the bench, so thus far, we feel we have provided a safe avenue,” continued Jansen.

Before the Higgs government introduced these restrictions, Jansen mentioned, the organization was not consulted first.

“However, we sent a letter to the provincial government asking for consultation, asking for to be part of the further discussions, as well as to look at other ways to get young players back on the ice in a safe environment.”

Jansen mentioned Hockey NB has already heard from several parents who have shared their children are struggling mentally and socially because they cannot hit the ice.

“There’s no opportunity or avenue for them to enjoy recreation, or to be with their friends, and parents are also saying is that it will turn into what the province is trying to avoid.”

“Kids will congregate in private settings, whereas before, organized sports were a controlled setting with everyone having to provide proof of vaccination,” added Jansen.