In a scene that many would now recognize, another large sporting event has been cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

On Friday, Hockey Canada issued a statement announcing that they were officially cancelling the 2020 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge due to the ongoing virus pandemic.

The tournament was originally set to be hosted October 31 - November 7 in Charlottetown and Summerside, Prince Edward Island.

Tom Renney, the CEO; and Scott Smith, the President and COO with Hockey Canada, issued a statement citing a variety of reasons for the cancellation, all revolving around the safety of both players and spectators.

“As some provinces continue to move ahead with phased re-opening, Hockey Canada’s priority remains the health and safety of all participants and the general public. We believe the decision to cancel the 2020 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, presented by TELUS, is the safest decision given the ongoing uncertainty of the pandemic at a local level, as well as the international implications associated with this event."

Their virtual camp, scheduled for July 19 - 25, will still continue as planned, where four Swift Current Broncos prospects will be taking part.

So far, no other changes to Hockey Canada's event line-up have been announced for the fall or winter.

Last year's Under-17 Hockey Challenge was held in Swift Current and Medicine Hat. 

Russia defeating the United States 6-2 to claim gold while Canada White lost to the Czech Republic in overtime; losing out on the bronze.