Clan tell players they can leave Braehead club
Pandemic forces difficult decision
Clan boss Gareth Chalmers admits he’s had to tell players they can skate for other teams due to the uncertainty caused by coronavirus.
The Braehead outfit are anxiously waiting for news on when the new season might get up and running, with the Elite Ice Hockey League set to host a make or break meeting on Tuesday, September 15.
And Clan chief operating officer Chalmers has had to tell his players they can pursue other options, given the current climate.
He said: “It has been a very difficult and testing period for everyone since the 2019/20 season prematurely finished back in March.
“It has certainly been the most challenging six months in the club’s history, and we’ve had to learn quickly and adapt to the ever changing situation that has threatened the future of the club on a daily basis.
“Now that there are sporting test events going on throughout the UK, we are starting to see some glimmer of hope for the Clan and the EIHL, as a whole.
“Taking into account the current situation here and our reliance on the UK and Scottish governments providing us with positive news for attendances at sporting events, I have already advised all of our players under contract to start investigating and pursuing alternative opportunities if they intend to play during 2020/21.”
While the outlook may be bleak, there is still some hope that a shortened season could be completed should action get back underway in December.
Clan fans will be hoping that comes to pass to see their favourite stars back in action this side of 2021.
Chalmers added: “This wasn’t an easy decision as I really like the core that we were building and the calibre of player we had lined up for the new season.
“However, ultimately, we have to take into account the personal situations of our players and, like everyone else, they need to be given the best opportunity to make a living during these difficult times.
“Like everyone else, we’ve still got our fingers crossed for the projected December start.
“However, when you take into account we’re now in September and we’re still dealing with local lockdowns, ice rinks and arenas still not being open, it’s looking increasingly difficult.
“All of the EIHL board of directors have agreed a date of September 15 for a final date on whether we can start in December.
“If a 2020/ 21 season were not to materialise, the Clan, along with all other nine EIHL clubs, are committed to a 2021/22 season.”
The Paisley Pirates, who also count the Braehead Arena as their home rink, are also facing an anxious wait to see if they will be able to return to competitive action this year.