According to Anya Packer, director of the NWHL Players Association, the decision was made by the tournament’s safety committee a few weeks ago. The board is made up of about 20 members. They are infectious disease specialists, tournament executives, and members of the player association. They have had two-week calls since the commission’s inception in April.

In a statement, the tournament said it would make decisions on medical protocols, ticket sales, and arena capacity to fans before the start of the season. Declaring that in each step, decisions will be guided by science and under the direction of doctors, the Statement said.

This is an extended year for the tournament, which adds a Toronto franchise in April. NWHL said it still hopes to run a regular 20-game season, with each team playing two games over 10 consecutive weekends. The playoffs are scheduled for the end of March, with an All-Star game to be played after the championship.

The delay is a financial hurdle

While the delay will be a financial hurdle for NWHL, which relies heavily on ticket sales. Starting in January offers more time to ensure full secure protocols. Besides, it helps navigate Limit travel when activities start in the fall. Saroya Tinker, a rookie with Metropolitan Riveter training in Toronto, said she was relieved by the tournament’s decision.

Teams will be allowed to host optional ax starting September 21, with official activities starting October 19. Packer said the committee consulted the National Women’s Football Federation and the WNBA about their protocols, followed instructions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and worked with authorities in cities where their teams are located.

The players will still receive their full salary

She also confirmed that players will still receive their full salary. Last season, NWHL’s highest published salary was $ 15,000. The Professional Female Hockey Players Association, which hosts many of the Olympic stars playing in the exhibition games, has yet to announce the 2020-21 schedule.