The BC Hockey League has unveiled an abbreviated five-week, 20-game schedule

Photo: Contributed

The BC Hockey League will play an abbreviated 20-game regular season schedule beginning April 2.

The five-week season is slated to conclude May 9.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, five hub cities have been set up to host small groups of three, or four teams.

These hubs have been established in Vernon, Penticton, Chilliwack, Coquitlam and Port Alberni.

Vernon will host West Kelowna and Salmon Arm, while Penticton's hub will include Trail and Cranbrook.

Teams will play each assigned hub opponent 10 times over the course of the 20-game schedule.

Vernon and Penticton will both kick off their scheduled on opening night. The Vipers will face Salmon Arm while Penticton take on Trail.

The Warriors open up the following night, April 3 against Salmon Arm.

Click here for the complete schedule.

“It has been a long road, but we’re thrilled to finally announce our season schedule,” said BCHL executive director Steven Cocker.

“Our coaches and players have spent the past seven months focusing on on-ice and off-ice development and now we are able to provide them with a chance to play meaningful games to give them the NHL and NCAA exposure they deserve.”

Due to provincial restrictions, fans will not be allowed to attend games.

Players and coaches are self-quarantining at the moment.

Once the quarantine period ends at the close of the week, players will be tested for COVID-19. Those who test negative will be able to begin practicing Monday.