American teams in the WHL will begin their regular season on March 19 (Photo courtesy the Western Hockey League)

By Justin Goulet

U.S.-based WHL teams to start regular season March 19

Feb 6, 2021 | 10:17 AM

CALGARY, AB – American teams in the Western Hockey League (WHL) will be back on the ice Friday, March 19.

The WHL announced the start date for the U.S. Division’s 2020-2021 regular season. The news follows an update from Washington State regarding Sporting Activities COVID-19 Requirements issued on February 1.

That update allows the WHL to return to play in Washington State.

The WHL’s U.S. Division is comprised of five teams: the Everett Silvertips, the Portland Winterhawks, the Seattle Thunderbirds, the Spokane Chiefs and the Tri-City Americans.

They will play exclusively within their division during the regular season.

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The full regular season 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”, read a statement from the Western Hockey League.

Additionally, fans will not be permitted to enter WHL facilities once teams in the U.S. Division begin their season.

Late last month, the WHL announced that the five Alberta teams in the league will start their season on February 26, forming the Central Division.

READ MORE: WHL season kicks off February 26