October 2020

October 18, 2020: Your October update!!

Hey Cruisers Family!

As many of you are already aware, the decision was made by the provincial and regional health authorities to roll back Toronto, Peel, York and Ottawa to what they have defined as modified Stage 2.  At this time, Halton has not made the determination to move from stage 3.

The health and safety of all our athletes and their families are of utmost importance and our board frequently reviews the information from the regional health authorities, provincial sports organizations (PSO) and national sports organizations (NSO).

Regional situations are evolving rapidly.  The board continues to work diligently to develop programming focused on safely getting our athletes back to sport.  This may include virtual or in person where possible.  

Each and every athlete and family should review the protocols for your given sport and make the personal determination if it is safe for you and your family to return.  As our community is considered at a higher risk, it is advised you consult with your caregivers and physicians to ensure they support your desire to return to play.  It is imperative this step is completed for the safety of the athlete, their family and surrounding community.

With specific regions moving to modified stage 2, there will be changes to the originally planned return to sport guidance.   

Para athletics - most athletes are on break right now, planning to start back in early November.  We will closely monitor regional developments and advise the membership on any changes to the current plan. 

Para Ice-Hockey will not be returning as planned.  The board strongly believes that physical activity and a sense of community is vitally important for the mental and physical health of our club now more than ever.  After recent communication with consulting physicians and discussions with various PSO/NSO’s, we have updated and intensified our protocols and made difficult decisions to our programs.  First, the decision was made to pause the return to Iceland arena until November 7^th, subject to changes based on Peel region health authorities.  Second, the decision was made to put the development program on hold until further notice.  All other teams will now be utilizing Oakville Sixteen Mile Sports Complex.  There will be three dressing rooms available to ensure physical distancing, additionally, we have decided to limit the number of people on ice to 10 players, including pushers, plus coaches.  For those who are not able, at this time, to return to on ice play we are working to provide a virtual program for those interested.

Basketball is planning to start back in early November; however, this will be contingent on the region’s health authorities’ directions on numbers for indoor spaces.  We will be watching the developments closely and keep you posted on any changes to that plan.

Boccia and Multi-Sports will remain online for this season.

Thank you for your support and patience during these uncertain times.  We are focused on a safe return to play for all of our athletes and families.

Please take care, stay safe and support one another.

Cruisers Board of Directors