September at least before competitive club hockey can resume

The decision could mean another five months of idleness at least for the principal clubs in the Borders, such as Kelso, Fjordhus Reivers, Peebles, Berwick, and others.

In a statement released today (Wednesday), Scottish Hockey reminded everyone these were unprecedented times and, like many organisations, itself, and the hockey community, faced significant challenges on multiple fronts as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Owing to the level of uncertainty around facilities, social distancing and teams’ access to players over the summer months, Scottish Hockey ruled there would be no competitive club hockey contests played in Scotland until September, at the earliest.

“As such, all domestic youth competitions planned for the period up until the end of August have been cancelled,” said the statement. “This includes the U12, U14 and U16 festivals in May and June.

“The U16 National Club Cup, originally postponed in March and April, has also now been cancelled.

“Previously, we announced the U14 Inter-Districts have been cancelled. The teams whose Senior Schools Cup Finals were postponed on March 13 have been contacted to discuss options for concluding these.

“We are currently monitoring and assessing the possibilities with regard to international youth hockey on a weekly basis. However, at this stage, all international youth hockey has been cancelled.”

Scottish Hockey has also been investigating various possibilities, including playing options, to conclude season 2019-20 for the Scottish Hockey Premiership, National, Regional and Championship leagues.

A decision has also yet to be reached on concluding the cup and plate competitions.

“Three guiding principles were established as part of our investigation process – health and safety, fairness and practicality,” continued the statement.

“Any decision on Scottish Hockey competitions will be made based on these three principles and all clubs having access to training and playing facilities.

“The overriding principle must be the health and safety of all participants. We will be guided by the Government and public health authorities in making any decision to resume hockey. 

“This process is ongoing and, until clarity is reached in a number of areas, no firm decision will be made.

“The situation is complex and constantly evolving, and we will make an announcement on what happens next as soon as possible.

“Thank you for your understanding and patience.”