The Alberta Junior Hockey League is postponing the start of the 2020-21 regular season.

They announced on Friday current restrictions and measures in place because of COVID-19 are forcing them to push it back.

The hope was to kick off the season in September.

“As anxious as we all are to return to competition and embrace our communities, public safety and the safety of our athletes has to be the priority,” said Ryan Bartoshyk, AJHL Commissioner.

Instead, the AJHL is launching a development season where teams can prepare for the upcoming season while providing players an opportunity for high-calibre training and development.

These camps will be held in all communities, which includes Fort McMurray, and will get underway on August 31.

“The opportunity for an AJHL Development Season will amplify the League’s ability to provide our athletes with a valuable experience through the quality instruction of our coaches and access to team training resources,” added Bartoshyk.

The new start date for the regular season has yet to be announced.