Minnesota Hockey today released its Return to Play Guidelines, following the announcement by the State of Minnesota that organized youth sports can resume activities beginning Monday, June 1.

The guidelines are not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Local rinks and associations will need to follow the guidelines set forth by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and its Guidance for Social Distancing, as well as local government officials in determining when, and how, it is appropriate to return to the rinks, including requirements or guidelines for physical distancing, size of gatherings or number of people permitted in a facility, or wearing masks, etc.

Minnesota Hockey established these guidelines in an effort to provide recommendations and ideas to consider when evaluating and planning your programs in the context of COVID-19. Please know these are not requirements, but they are designed to assist associations in keeping their members safe.

Remember we can contribute to helping eliminate COVID-19 by doing these four things:

1. Physical Distance
2. Wash Hands and Practice Safe Hygiene Habits
3. Clean Surfaces and Equipment Between Uses
4. Staying Home When Sick or Experiencing Any Symptoms

The knowledge and circumstances around COVID-19 are changing constantly and, as such, Minnesota Hockey encourages all affiliates to stay up-to-date on state and local government guidelines and recommendations from the CDC. Minnesota Hockey will also continue to provide updates and adjust these guidelines as more information develops.

Minnesota Hockey would like to thank the following organizations for their resources, guidance and cooperation in creating these guidelines: Center for Disease Control, Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission, Minnesota Department of Health, Minnesota Ice Arena Managers Association, The Aspen Institute’s Project Play and USA Hockey.

Stay safe and we look forward returning to the ice soon!