Fort McMurray’s boys of summer will not suit up at Legacy Dodge Field at Shell Place this season.
The Western Canadian Baseball League (WCBL) announced it would cancel the 2020 campaign.
The Board of Governors voted unanimously not to play games this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement posted on the Fort McMurray Giants Facebook page, WCBL President Kevin Kvame said health and safety is the number one concern.
“Following the federal, provincial, and municipal health guidelines and medical recommendations, the league determined it would be impossible to guarantee the safety of players, coaches, umpires, host families, staff, volunteers, and fans during the COVID-19 pandemic situation to the extent required by authorities.”
Kvame said they explored several options before reaching the decision.
READ MORE: WCBL season up in the air amid COVID-19; Giants preparing to play this summer if allowed
One option included delaying the season to July 4th and fielding all-Canadian rosters.
Another involved reduced stadium capacities to support physical distancing and providing temperature checks and masks.
The WCBL cited the closure of the Canada-U.S. border until at least June 22, and the mandatory 14-day quarantine for international travel as reasons it decided to cancel the season.
The 10-team league thanked its players who registered to represent the WCBL and the fans and communities for their support.
“Our fans make WCBL stadiums a special place to play for the players during the summer, giving them a chance to play in front of thousands in Alberta and Saskatchewan.”
Kvame said the WCBL looks forward to returning for the 2021 season.
READ MORE: Giants say baseball is growing on Fort McMurray
The Fort McMurray Giants finished the 2019 season with a franchise-best 28 wins and .500 win percentage.
