OHL mandates vaccinations for everyone participating in the league, more leagues to follow

It's something that many had mentioned would likely be coming, but we now have official confirmation. The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) has announced that everyone working in the league - that includes players, coaches, team staff, volunteers, billet families, etc. - that may must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days before the 2021-22 season starts or they will not be participating in the league.

"The Ontario Hockey League requires that all OHL community members be vaccinated against COVID-19, in accordance with the remainder of this policy at least 14 days prior to the commencement of the 2021-2022 season," the league said in a statement.

Those who cannot get vaccinated due to age or for medical reasons can get an excemption. However, the league requires medical documentation in order for that to happen. A player who fails to comply may be removed from their club's roster through the end of the pandemic or until the virus is no longer a concern. Team or league employees who fail to adhere to the guidelines can be placed on unpaid leave for the same length of time.

Player agent Allan Walsh said he's hearing it will be the same for the other two junior leagues in Canada, the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League.

Meanwhile, TSN's Rick Westhead says the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL) is considering a similar policy, but hasn't made a firm decision yet.

"One doctor tells me 'shit show' coming this fall because of Delta variant and vaccine a must," Westhead said in a Tweet.

"We understand there are varying opinions on the need to mandate vaccinations," a GTHL official told Westhead, adding the league is consulting with Toronto Public Health, SickKids Hospital and watching for Ontario's Ministry of Education's return to school rules before making a decision and announcing it to the public by August 20th.

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