College hockey delays start of upcoming season

College hockey is the latest sport to delay its season.

The Hockey Commissioners Association announced Thursday that Division I hockey’s 2020-21 season will be delayed due to COVID-19 concerns.

The decision affects both men’s and women’s hockey.

"Clearly everyone in college hockey wanted to be playing games next month, but we knew this delay was likely to happen and the health and safety of our student-athletes is what’s most important," University of Minnesota men’s hockey coach Bob Motzko said. "We all believe there is a path forward and look for that to come soon. The good thing is that this delay will not affect our team’s preparation for when we do start the season. We’re confident that day will come, and we will be ready to compete when it does."

"While we are disappointed that the start of our season is delayed, we trust in our leadership to make the best decisions for the health and safety of our student-athletes. When the time comes to drop the puck, I can promise that we will be ready," U of M women’s hockey coach Brad Frost added.

The Hockey Commissioners Association, which represents the 11 Division I hockey conferences, issued the following statement:

"The eleven Division I men’s and women’s ice hockey conferences, represented by the Hockey Commissioners Association (HCA), are committed to providing memorable competitive experiences for our student-athletes during the upcoming season. The conferences have been working together on plans to return with a focus on the health and safety of everyone associated with our campus communities. Due to the impact COVID-19 continues to have across the country and within higher education, the start of competition for the Division I college hockey season will be delayed. Each conference will announce details on game schedules, including the start dates, individually. We look forward to our players and fans enjoying the college hockey experience this season."