Dear Melbourne Ice Community, We are truly living through an unprecedented situation due to the global impacts of the Coronavirus. Who could have foreseen the events of the last few weeks with mass shutdowns of sports, leagues, events, community activities, businesses, schools and of course, the toilet paper crisis. First and foremost here at the Tempur Melbourne Ice, we place the health and welfare of our players, coaches, team staff, families, members, volunteers and fans as our highest priority. In saying that, we need to advise that for now the 2020 AIHL Season start has officially been postponed. The Board of Governors met last night and agreed that with advice from the World Health Organisation, (WHO), IIHF, IHA and Federal and State governments, that to ensure the health and safety of all our players and the community, a suspension of all activities is the most appropriate course of action. This morning we immediately convened a special meeting with all our playing group staff and discussed how we will respond during this time of uncertainly and postponement. We agreed that suspending all team activities and trainings till the end of the month was the most appropriate action to ensure their health and safety for now. Our players have been informed accordingly. We still face significant uncertainly with regards to the future of the season as we take the lead from our league, Ice Hockey Australia, Local Health Authorities and Government Agencies. We want to thank everyone of our 2020 members who have committed for the 2020 season. Rest assured that we are doing our absolute best to hold a full season at some stage this year. As soon as further details develop we will inform you immediately. To all our sponsors who have signed on for 2020, we thank you for your on-going commitment and appreciate that for now you have chosen to be all in for 2020, thank you. Our challenges are the same for the entire Australian ice hockey community, our venues, workplaces, families and the Melbourne Ice Hockey Club. But as we say, maintaining a #oneice approach, together we will get through these very challenging and difficult times. It’s understandable that some of us may be experiencing feelings of anxiety, uncertainty and concern throughout these difficult times. We recommend that you continue to stay informed via the Australian Government and Victorian Government Health Services websites, keep talking to each or simply reach out to us here at Melbourne Ice. Thank you all for your continued support of our wonderful club and the Australian ice hockey community. Stay well and stay safe, please. Sincerely, PJ and Andy If you have any questions or concerns, please email info@melbourneice.com.au |