U SPORTS, in conjunction with hosts University of Prince Edward Island, Acadia University and Sports & Entertainment Atlantic (S|E|A), announced this evening the cancellation of the 2020 U SPORTS Women’s and Men’s Hockey Championships.

The decision was made following Hockey Canada’s announcement to cancel all sanctioned activities due to the evolving global situation regarding COVID-19.

“As proud partner of Hockey Canada, we understand how difficult a decision this was to make,” said Lisette Johnson-Stapley, U SPORTS Chief Sport Officer. “We understand the disappointment felt by our student-athletes, coaches, officials and wonderful hosts however the decision was made with the best interest of all participants in mind.”

Chris Huggan, UPEI Director of Athletics and Recreation, said “On behalf of UPEI, we are disappointed that the participating teams will not have the opportunity to complete the 2020 U SPORTS women’s hockey championship, but we understand the reasoning behind this announcement. We thank Islanders for their support throughout the season and towards this event."

Kevin Dickie, Acadia Executive Director of Athletics & Community Events added, “We’re terribly disappointed that we cannot conclude the 2020 University Cup, but we respect the difficult decision Hockey Canada made. I've been doing this for 16 years as an athletic director and have never felt sadder for coaches, student-athletes, and a committee that cared so much."

This is the first time in the 58-year history of the David Johnston University Cup that it will not be presented. Similarly, the Golden Path Trophy will not be awarded for the first time in its 22-year history.

U SPORTS and the host organizations would like to thank the fans in Halifax and Charlottetown for their support through the first day of competition.

For fans who have purchased tickets, a full refund will be issued in the coming days.