By Tom Bourdon,
Head Athletic Trainer, Cleveland Monsters
PHATS AHL Executive Committee President

After an 11 month lay-off the American Hockey League returned to action on February 5, 2021.  

The AHL Board of Governors and PHPA agreed to an abbreviated regular season that will conclude on May 16^th, 2021.  Unfortunately, three franchises were unable to participate in this season and decided to suspend operations temporarily, with the goal of returning to play in the 2021 – 2022 season.  

In what has so far been a season like no other, there have been numerous obstacles and countless hours of work dedicated to the safety of players, team staff, arena staff, and game operations personnel.  The work that has made this season a reality has most certainly seemed insurmountable some days, and impossible others and yet in light of it all, what should come to no one’s surprise, this group of athletic trainers, equipment managers, and team physicians have found a way to get the job done. Each of our members has without question risen to the challenge and although they may hold humble reference to their actions, we all in this group know the reality of the circumstance without question.    

The highest gratitude and appreciation go out to the medical staff of each organization, the COVID-19 officers, the equipment managers, and the team physicians for their dedication, hard work, and perseverance. You have all successfully brought AHL hockey back to our communities and fans.

Stay well and stay safe.