Report: BCHL return-to-play plan includes five hubs around the province

 

The BC Hockey League has mapped out a proposal to play the 2020-21 campaign as it attempts to ease travel amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 17 teams will be split into five regional pods, with three being composed of three teams and two made up of four teams, according to Global BC’s Jay Janower.

So here's what we know…#BCHL is still having their final proposal looked at…they've been told a decision could come late tomorrow or Wednesday…BCHL proposal involves 3 pods of 3 teams, and 2 pods of 4 teams..travel restrictions a major hurdle. League remains hopeful.

— JAY JANOWER (@JayJanower) March 1, 2021

Travel around the province is a main issue for the BCHL. It was addressed in the Western Hockey League’s approved proposal as the major junior circuit’s BC Division will play in hubs based in Kelowna and Kamloops.

A report over the weekend indicates the BCHL has pitched a 20-game season starting this month and running until May.

Part of that report included a deadline of Wednesday for approval of the BCHL’s return-to-play plan. If the plan isn’t approved by then, a motion will reportedly be prepared for owners to vote on Thursday to cancel the season.

Per TSN reporter Farhan Lalji, the BCHL expects a response to its plan on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Monday’s decision to allow the WHL to play games in British Columbia has to be encouraging for the BCHL’s franchises.

However, the league’s plan is still in front of government authorities, according to Global BC legislative reporter Richard Zussman.