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After tumultuous week of changes, Quesnel’s West Fraser Centre allowing spectators again

Capacity limits at the rink have changed four times in the past two weeks
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Fifty spectators will be allowed in the West Fraser Centre, alongside 50 people on the ice. (Lindsay Chung Photo - Quesnel Cariboo Observer)

Capacity at West Fraser Centre has been an ever-changing number, and on Friday, Oct. 23, it changed again.

On Oct. 13, there were 100 total people allowed in the building. Later that week, it was reduced to 50 total, spectators and athletes combined, and then down to only athletes.

Now, the City of Quesnel has moved back to 50 people on the ice and 50 people in the stands, as of Friday, Oct. 23 at 4 p.m. Rink 2 allows 50 people total.

Carlos Gonzalez is the communications officer for the Quesnel and District Minor Hockey Association (QDMHA), and he is hoping the number can stay stable now.

“It’s been more of a struggle for the parents [than the kids],” he quipped.

The increase in capacity is especially welcomed, as minor hockey games against Williams Lake and Prince George are set to begin soon.

“If you look at the numbers with COVID-19, it’s going in the wrong direction,” Gonzalez said. “Hopefully people get smart and get COVID-19 away, and we can focus on having a season and lives more normal.”

There are still stringent protocols related to COVID-19 safety at City facilities. Everyone entering must sign in, and enhanced cleaning and distancing is the key

“[Allowed attendance] is where it should be at,” Gonzalez said. “We are happy with those numbers. It gives us the ability to have parents watch.”

The QDMHA is still livestreaming practices and games on its website.

“We understand things can change, and don’t mind if things go to zero tomorrow because of an outbreak,” Gonzalez said. “We’re happy that the city has agreed and listened to our voice.”

READ MORE: Quesnel minor hockey hoping for COVID-19 shutout

Do you have something to add to this story, or something else we should report on? Email: cassidy.dankochik@quesnelobserver.com


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