From Glenn Hefferan, AAHA President

It should be clear to all our Leagues, Clubs, participants and families that COVID-19 is on the uptick. Two New England states (New Hampshire and Massachusetts) completely shut down ice hockey for at least two weeks. If we want to keep ice hockey safe and open in the Atlantic District, we must be vigilant in doing all that is required under State requirements and then do more. League & Club leaders along with Coaches and Managers must amplify the previously issued guidance and requirements, and demand strict adherence.

LOCKER ROOMS – NEW REQUIREMENT:
The use of ice rink locker rooms is strictly prohibited for all AAHA activities until further notice. Yes, we know it's a bit of hassle, but the alternative is worse. Players should arrive at the rink needing only to put on skates, helmet and gloves. Dressing in the car can be difficult but its manageable.

SPECTATORS/PARENTS/GUARDIANS:
New Jersey: Prohibits spectators/parents during competition/games. This must be strictly followed. For age levels of 8U and below, the AAHA recognizes that 1 Parent/guardian shall be deemed “Necessary” and may attend during games, however the Club and or rink may impose a stricter requirement.

Pennsylvania: buildings are limited to a percentage of lawful occupancy. However, the AAHA is now limiting spectators to no more than 1 person per child, and this AAHA imposed requirement does not authorize exceeding the percentage allowed under State requirements. If your rink is obtaining written guidance on spectator management from Local, County or State Departments of health, please contact me directly.

Delaware: Rules for Delaware have been managed by the Division of Health, on a rink by rink basis.

Every Club has the responsibility to ensure that health checks or temperature checks are performed at the entry points of your facility, including the visiting teams.

Use of masks, social distancing and following all requirements issued by each State and the AAHA, will play a definitive role in mitigating the spread of COVID-19.

The AAHA has built a good relationships with State officials and advised them we would work diligently with our members and rinks to follow all the best COVID mitigation protocols. Being 100% in these efforts does not mean that ice hockey won’t experience another interruption like New Hampshire and Massachusetts, but not following them will get likely get ice hockey shut down faster. It only took one State inspection to do so Massachusetts.

To our players: you can help by doing everything practical to social distance, wear your mask, do not put yourself in unnecessary risk of exposure. Do your part to KEEP HOCKEY OPEN!

LIMIT BUILDING ACCESS. WEAR THE MASK. STAY OUT OF LOCKER ROOMS. DO THE HEALTH CHECKS.