Drastic changes to hockey game attendance were put in place after an incident in Queens.
An incident last Friday during a game has resulted in the limitation of spectators to immediate family member of players at all U18A home games at at Queens Place Emera Center.
A Facebook post from the Queens County Minor Hockey Association made the announcement yesterday, and noted the restriction would not affect other division games.
Terrena Parnell, President of QCMHA says the decision did not come easy.
“It was a difficult decision and was not made lightly, It was made between Queens Place Emera Centre and the Queens County Minor Hockey Association,” she said.
“We stand by our decision, its an unfortunate situation, an unfortunate incident to happen and we are hoping to deter it from ever happening again.”
When asked for details regarding the incident, Parnell refused to comment.
The decision to limit audience to home games means a number of people who would regularly attend games, such as players’ relatives, friends or even unknown spectators will no longer be welcome to the games.
Parnell said she understands the decision will upset many, but ultimately safety had to come first.
“I know there are people who have issues with the decision, it affects my family as well,” she said.
“My son, myself and my husband can’t go watch the games either, but its a decision we felt was in the best interest of the public and we stand by that.”
As for when the restriction will be lifted, Parnell said it will remain in place for the foreseeable future.
With files from Cheyenne Nelson.
