CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. — Prince Edward Island hockey enthusiasts will have to wait another year to see the world’s best young players compete here.
Hockey Canada announced on Friday the 2020 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge has been cancelled due to the coronavirus (COVID-19 strain) pandemic. It was scheduled to take place in Charlottetown and Summerside from Oct. 31-Nov. 7.
“We believe the decision to cancel the 2020 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, presented by Telus, is the safest decision given the ongoing uncertainty of the pandemic at a local level, as well as the international implications associated with this event,” said a joint statement from Hockey Canada officials Tom Renney and Scott Smith.
Charlottetown and Summerside will host the 2021 competition.
Hockey Canada said its under-17 program will proceed with its virtual camp this summer and the national body will continue to monitor the pandemic and determine if it is safe to bring together the country’s three teams in the fall to compete in a local environment.
Those who have purchased tickets for the 2020 challenge will be contacted by July 15 regarding ticketing options, including a full refund.
