After just two games, the Virden Oil Kings’ first season in the Tiger Hills Hockey League is over.
Last week the 14-team senior hockey league announced it was cancelling the 2020-2021 campaign. The THHL website stated the decision was made due to “the fact that the Provincial Health/COVID Red restrictions have been extended until at least January 22nd.”
“While we are disappointed our group wasn’t able to compete for a THHL title, we understand public health and safety is paramount and adhering to guidelines is our best path back to the rink,” Oil Kings president Ryan Mathieson said.
He said the organization appreciates the community support it received. As well, Mathieson stated the Oil Kings are “working on options for our fans who purchased season tickets and we ask them to hang onto them.”
Virden lost its season opener, 5-3, to Killarney on the road on Oct. 30. The Oil Kings beat Hartney, 6-1, in Virden on Nov. 7 before the season was paused.
The North Central Hockey League, which includes the two-time defending champion Miniota-Elkhorn C-Hawks, had not made a decision on the fate of the season at the Empire-Advance’s deadline. In early November, the NCHL had pushed its start date back from Nov. 13 to Nov. 27 but has not yet been able to drop the puck on its season.
