PA announcement today. (More Restrictions)

[Youth Hockey Info]

Confirmation request regarding the NJYHL

A member of the Youth Hockey Info Facebook Group commented that NJYHL players must wear full face shields this season. If they do not, and continue to wear a cage, they must wear a mask during all on ice activity. Is this accurate? We responded to the member but they did not reply.

Link - https://www.facebook.com/groups/youthhockeyinfo/permalink/881634475678804/

[Guest]

Based upon what he did to the restaurant industry, he’s not listening to medical professionals and is doing what HE feels like at the time.  Indoor seating w restrictions isn’t ok, but opening up gyms is allowed.  Makes no sense.  Same with hockey.  I encountered more than 25 people at the small grocery store today and that was allowed.  The “rules” aren’t applied equally. 

[Guest]

I AM a medical professional and you have no idea what you are talking about. Why don't you come volunteer in the COVID unit of my hospital and then maybe you'll have some clue.

[Guest]

Several people have called the PA Department of Community and Economic Development.

DCED pointed us to this document and said rinks are considered indoor recreation facilities.

COVID-19 Guidance for Pennsylvania Businesses

Ice rinks are considered "indoor recreation" and can operate at 50% total capacity and outdoor fitness activities should be prioritized over indoor.

From the information section on Gatherings and Events, a group gathering would be a training sessions or sporting event, so 25 participants totale and participants must stay 6 feet apart.

Again, priority is given to non-contact skills and drills in sports. Coaches should be wearing masks.

Rinks, clubs and all organizations with questions would be expected to do due diligence in contacting DCED and Department of Health in getting clarification on these rules, preferably in writing. (It would be great if DVHL could get clarification in general and pass this along to member clubs.)

Again, all clubs and rinks are also expected to have publicly posted (on website) protocols for how positive COVID-19 cases will be handled among players/coaches/parents/officials.