Bonnyville Pontiacs season paused as AJHL waits for restrictions lifted

The Bonnyville Pontiacs season is on hold.

The AJHL announced that play is suspended after the new health restrictions in the province put a halt to all indoor organized sports in enhanced zones.

This pause will go until at least Dec. 18 as it’s believed the league did not receive an exemption to continue play.

“As a result of provincial restrictions announced on November 24th, the AJHL season is on pause until existing limitations are lifted and we are permitted to safely return,” the AJHL said in a statement Wednesday night.

“The AJHL Board of Governors will reconvene on December 19th, 2020 to determine a timeline and updated protocols for return to play.”

The Pontiacs (2-2) were getting set to host the Drayton Valley Thunder (2-2) this weekend for a pair of home games.

Last week, however, at least one member of the Canmore Eagles, Calgary Canucks, Okotoks Oilers, and Drumheller Dragons organizations tested positive for COVID-19.

The league schedule, which was reduced to 32 games for the 20-21 season, saw the North and South Divisions playing just their regional foes in order to limit the potential spread.

The Pontiacs split home games against the Whitecourt Wolverines last weekend in a pair of 3-2 games.