U.S. WHL teams to begin play in March

The Western Hockey League has announced its U.S. Division will begin the 2020-21 WHL regular season on Friday, March 19. This follows an update from Washington State regarding Sporting Activities COVID-19 Requirements issued on February 1, which allows the WHL to return to play in Washington State.

The WHL’s five U.S. Division teams – the Everett Silvertips, Portland Winterhawks, Seattle Thunderbirds, Spokane Chiefs, and Tri-City Americans – will play games exclusively within the Division during the 2020-21 regular season. The schedule for the U.S. Division will be announced at a later date.

The WHL has developed an extensive set of protocols to not only provide a safe environment for players and staff, but to protect residents of Washington State in the community. Further details on these protocols will be announced at a later date.

No spectators will be allowed in the U.S. arenas.