Return to Hockey Safely

We are all on the same team when it comes to stopping the spread of COVID-19 during these trying times. While the rules of hockey remain mostly unchanged, there are new guidelines and equipment that we can use to keep the game as safe as possible and to keep your local rink open.

As we know, the most important piece of advice is to avoid going to the rink if you are feeling sick. If you are feeling healthy and ready to play, we advise you to hit the restroom before you leave and to get dressed as much as possible in the parking lot before you go inside. Walkable skate guards and even skate mats can help make getting dressed in your car a lot easier!

When you are ready to head inside, approximately 10-15 minutes prior to puck drop, make sure you put on your fabric face mask and try to social distance yourself as much as you can.

Like anywhere else, frequently wash your hands, avoid touching your eyes/nose/mouth and keep a bottle of hand sanitizer handy!

The most exciting part of hockey is actually playing, right? Unfortunately, it does pose a risk, but with proper gear and guidelines, everyone can help minimize the chance of infection.

As per USA Hockey, Full Hockey Shields are likely better than visors or cages since they can act as a barrier in case someone near coughs or sneezes, it can deter someone from touching their face and it likely prevents spitting on the rink/bench. Full Face Shields will not prevent the inhalation of aerosolized COVID droplets.

• Use a Full Face Shield
• Bring your own bottle of sanitizer, water bottle and sweat towel to the bench
• Try to social distance during play
• Don't touch the puck (referees only)
• Don't spit anywhere
• "Hop Over, Skate In" line changes
• Keep your helmets, cages and gloves on during the handshake lines
• Celebrate individually or distanced from teammates

After you hopefully won the game you were playing, the best piece of advice is to get undressed and leave the facility as soon as you can. First things first, sanitize your hands, wipe down surfaces and equipment (stick, gloves & helmet) with disinfectants.

Avoid the locker room as much as possible and make sure you shower at home rather than at the rink. When you're at home, you can further deep clean your gear too.

• Hard goods like protective gear, helmets, etc. should be sprayed with deodorizers after each. Use water and mild soap as often as possible for a deep clean.
• Soft goods like baselayer, jerseys, socks, etc. should be machine washed with sports-specific detergent using the appropriate settings described on each piece.
• Wear latex (or similar) gloves when washing or spraying your gear, and ensure you thoroughly wash your hands afterward.