State Closes Ice Rinks For 2 Weeks, Citing Over 100 Coronavirus Cases Traced To Hockey

Starting Friday night, Massachusetts will close all indoor ice rinks for two weeks, citing over 100 coronavirus cases traced to playing hockey.

The Department of Public Health said at least 30 COVID-19 clusters statewide, resulting in 108 confirmed cases, have been connected to the sport.
The closure applies to all youth and recreational hockey, but does not apply to college or professional hockey.

Massachusetts Hockey said in a statement that while most players, staffers and their families are following state health and safety protocols, "there have been situations and areas where the Commonwealth feels compliance with the guidance has not been followed."

"Unfortunately, unless we are able to correct these issues, we would anticipate any further shutdown could be significantly longer than the current two weeks," the statement said. "This is related to both the guidance issued as well as cooperation with the contact tracing process."

The statement added the closures affect about 50,000 Massachusetts players and coaches.

Ice rinks are currently set to reopen on Nov. 7, officials said.