MJHL select squad was to have represented CJHL/Hockey Canada at international event this August
CALGARY, Alta. – The Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) was informed Tuesday that the 2020 edition of the Sirius Junior Club World Cup, slated for this August in Sochi, Russia, has been cancelled.
A select squad of players and staff from the Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL) had previously been chosen to represent the CJHL and Hockey Canada at the eight-nation international event, which was to be been played Aug. 21-28.
The official announcement on the event’s cancellation was made by Alexsandr Guskov, vice-president of junior hockey development for the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).
“Due to the ongoing pandemic, and for the protection and well-being of all participating federations, it was announced today, that the 2020 Sirius World Cup, held annually in August, in Sochi, has been cancelled.”
Following the news, the CJHL echoed the sentiments resulting in Tuesday’s announcement.
“In light of the current world COVID-19 pandemic, it was the proper decision to make,” stated CJHL president Brent Ladds.
“We wish our Russian hosts and all the competing federations in the event the very best and echo public sentiment, that now is the time to maintain public safety as our priority,” added Ladds.
In the first eight years of the JCWC, six Canadian contingents represented the nation at the event, including three from the CJHL.
The Fort McMurray Oil Barons (AJHL) (Tie-7th) played in the inaugural JCWC back in 2012 while the Ottawa Capitals (CCHL) won a bronze in 2018 with Team AJHL mining silver last year.
Meanwhile the Sudbury Wolves (OHL) took part in 2013 and 2014 (6th), winning gold in their initial appearance, with the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles (QMJHL) (8th) participating in 2015.