The Kootenay International Junior Hockey League has hit one of its league members with sanctions after being found in violation of the league's COVID-19 vaccination policy.
In a news release Wednesday, the league says the Beaver Valley Nitehawks franchise has been fined and head coach Terry Jones suspended eight games after it was learned two players did not comply with the vaccination policy requiring all team members be fully vaccinated.
The players in question took part in team activities, including regular season games without being fully vaccinated.
Jones stepped away from the bench when the league began an investigation into the allegations Nov. 15.
This is believed to be the first suspension involving junior hockey players in the province related to COVID-19 requirements.