The CBHL opens for league play on October 31st. A fitting date in a mask wearing time.  Final declarations have been submitted and scheduling is underway.   It has taken the help of numerous volunteers and their many hours of behind the scenes work to get us this far. We still have lots to do, but we’ve made great progress despite the pandemic.  

Many of our league’s teams have been engaged in non-league play over the last two weekends.  While things have gone relatively smooth given this unprecedented year, I expected more from the season.

Two recent games reported fighting penalties. Parents were removed from the stands for berating the officials. Coaches have been ejected for arguing with on-ice officials. We already had the first Match penalty of the season. I expected more from this season – more positivity, more patience, more gratitude.

This week, the CBHL member clubs will receive a document on COVID-19 rules and guidelines for the season. The document will include the PVAHA guidelines and an addendum to the CBHL rules to comply with the affiliate guidelines. Part of the document includes Zero Tolerance and supplemental discipline.

There are two items that are not included in the document: Patience and Gratitude.

Patience is self-explanatory. We just need to try to remember to be patient. 

For gratitude, I take a step back as to where we were and are now.

1. It was more than half a year ago that every ice rink in our area had its doors locked.  There was no hockey.  Many of our kids are back on the ice, with their friends, exercising and not on a computer or in front of the TV.  Be grateful.  
2. There are so many people working tirelessly, in most cases without compensation, just to provide the OPPORTUNITY for our youth to play a sport they love.  Be grateful.
3. Rinks are opening. Rink staff is cleaning to keep us safe. Many, not all, of our officials have returned for the season. Schedulers are working to get all the games on the books within a reduced number of weekends. Team managers are reviewing the new rules, regulations, and documents. Be grateful.
4. What we have now is not guaranteed.  At any point, this can all be taken away.  It takes only the slightest of missteps.  Do not take it for granted.  Be grateful. 
5. Perspective.  For most of us, we have our health, we have family, and a means to provide and support our families.  Be grateful.  

We are all stressed.  This is exhausting.  The daily uncertainties create stress that is unlike anything any of us have experienced.  Remember: you cannot be stressed and grateful at the same time.  

Be grateful.  

Stay safe and well and LET’S PLAY HOCKEY!!

Debbie Moon