For fans of The Red Deer Rebels, your wait for the new season just got longer.

The Western Hockey League (WHL) has announced that due to COVID-19 restrictions and concerns for players and fans, the 2020-2021 season will be delayed.

From the WHL:

With public health restrictions in place across Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest U.S., the WHL is not in a position to start its Regular Season as planned on January 8. 

The WHL will continue to work with Government and Health Authorities in our region as we consider schedule options for the 2020-21 WHL Regular Season.

The WHL have developed a series of protocols in consultation with health authorities that are necessary to protect WHL players, staff, officials, and fans during the COVID-19 pandemic.  “We continue to make every effort to get our season started, but our first priority has always been the health and safety of our players, and everyone associated with the WHL,” commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison.

“Given the public health restrictions that are currently in effect, we are not in a position to determine a new target date for our season. We will continue to consult with health authorities to determine when it is safe and responsible to get our season started.”