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Minnesota Officials Release COVID-19 Preparedness Plan

By Minnesota Hockey, 09/10/20, 9:15AM CDT

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The Minnesota Hockey Officials Association (MHOA) has released is COVID-19 preparedness plan for the 2020-21 season. Minnesota Hockey is united with MHOA in their commitment to keeping every official safe along with the players, coaches and spectators as we return to play.

MHOA’s plan provides a set of guidelines for officials while equipping them to make the best decisions for themselves and their family without fear of punishment. The document is not intended to replace requirements set forth by the Minnesota Department of Health, CDC, Minnesota Hockey and USA Hockey or to provide medical advice, but rather to produce a framework for local referee associations and members to reference as they prepare to officiate hockey.

Officials are encouraged to be fully transparent and communicate in advance with their local assigners and leadership group regarding their health and comfort level with accepting assignments throughout the season. If an official believes their safety or the safety of others is compromised, they should remove themselves from a game without fear of losing future assignments.

Additional highlights of MHOA’s plan include:

  • Officials must wear a face covering when entering or exiting arenas.
  • Face coverings during games are optional. Any official choosing to use a face covering during play will utilize an electronic whistle.
  • Officials are encouraged to arrive at the arena with the majority of their equipment on and adhere to social distancing guidelines before and after games.
  • Officials should sanitize their hands before and after games.
  • Officials will avoid shaking hands with coaches and players during the game. A brief introduction/greeting with each coaching staff before games while adhering to social distancing is still encouraged.

To view or download the complete document, click here.

Minnesota Hockey would like to express its gratitude for all of the officials for their service in the upcoming season. A return to play would not be possible without officials, and we appreciate your commitment towards making the upcoming season safe and successful for the players, coaches and parents. Thank you for your continued dedication to the great game of hockey!

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