Major changes to MJHL playoffs

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Published on Tuesday, June 14, 2016

Submitted Article

MJHL Media Release

The Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL) has decided to eliminate the Survivor Series component of its playoff format. Commissioner Kim Davis announced via media release on Friday, June 10, that for this upcoming season, the playoffs will consist of four, best-of-seven, quarter-final series. This format was approved by the league’s Board of Governors during its recent meetings in Selkirk. The playoffs will begin on Friday, Mar. 10, 2017.

The Board of Governors also approved an amendment to the league’s overtime format. This coming season, the format will consist of one, five-minute sudden death period. Each team will use three skaters and one goaltender. If the game is still tied following the five-minute overtime period, a shoot-out will take place.

A number of other amendments, which were approved by the board, included strengthening the length of suspension for accumulation levels (three minor penalties in the season), major penalties and match penalties for a blow to the head. As well the MJHL amended the guidelines that initiates a suspension for accumulation levels (five minor penalties in the season) for goaltender interference. 

Other changes made for the upcoming season include rescheduling this year’s MJHL/Old Dutch Showcase. It will now take place from Dec. 12-14 at the MTS IcePlex in Winnipeg. The event, now in its 14th year, usually occurs in late September. This date change is expected to allow more scouts from the NHL, NCAA, CIS and semi-pro leagues from across the continent to attend.

The Board of Governors has also approved the hiring of one, full-time staff person in the new position of Director of Operations for the league office. The recruitment process has begun and an announcement on the selected candidate will be made prior to the end of June.