The La Ronge Ice Wolves had their playoff run come to a screeching halt on Thursday afternoon due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

La Ronge was on its way to Yorkton Thursday for game five of the series, which was supposed to take place tonight (Friday), but the bus had to turn around when the CJHL made the decision to postpone games and all hockey-related activity involving its member clubs.

“In lieu of the worldwide events and ongoing implications of COVID-19 and following in-depth deliberations with our executive board and each of the commissioners/presidents, along with consultations with medical experts, as well as Hockey Canada, the decision has been made to put a hold on the season for the time being,” said CJHL President Brent Ladds in a news release. “We will continue to stay abreast of the situation as it evolves and we will provide further updates as they become available.”

The Ice Wolves tied their best-of-seven SJHL first-round series at two on Wednesday night at home when they dumped the Yorkton Terriers 5-1.

“It kind of puts a damper on things a little bit here,” said La Ronge Ice Wolves Head Coach and GM Kevin Kaminski. “I know the boys were excited about the solid 60 minutes that they played and we had the momentum, so we’ll see what happens. Now, it’s just a matter of staying focused and prepared here mentally and physically to stay on top of our game.”

Game six of the first-round playoff series was supposed to take place on Sunday night in La Ronge at the Mel Hegland Uniplex.

(PHOTO: The Ice Wolves hosted the Yorkton Terriers Tuesday and Wednesday. Photo courtesy of Brandon White.)