Hockey Canada has been forced to quarantine its junior team ©Hockey Canada

Hockey Canada has been forced to place players, coaches and staff into quarantine after two positive coronavirus tests were recorded at the national junior team selection camp.

The national governing body said two positive tests had occurred, leading to the camp’s activities being suspended.

A 14-day quarantine was required for those involved at the camp in Red Deer, Alberta.

“Following the confirmation of two positive tests among players at Canada’s National Junior Team Sport Chek Selection Camp on Monday, Hockey Canada has confirmed that all players, coaches and staff are considered close contacts and are therefore subject to the mandatory 14-day quarantine period under Alberta Health Services’ Order 05-2020,” said Scott Salmond, Hockey Canada’s senior vice-president of national teams.

“Hockey Canada will continue to abide by all protocols and guidelines set forth by the Government of Alberta and Alberta Health Services, as it is not exempt from Order 05-2020, and will put a pause on all camp activities until the quarantine period is complete.

“Upon learning of the positive tests on Monday, the decision was made to suspend all camp activities and quarantine players and staff immediately.

“As per Hockey Canada’s safety protocols, all players, coaches and staff members will go through additional testing before resuming any camp activities.

“We remain in constant communication with the appropriate health authorities, and we appreciate and thank Alberta Health Services for its dedication to ensuring the health and safety of our players, staff and the community at large.”

The 2021 International Ice Hockey Federation's World Junior Championship is due to be held behind closed doors at the Rogers Place venue in Edmonton ©Edmonton Events
The 2021 International Ice Hockey Federation's World Junior Championship is due to be held behind closed doors at the Rogers Place venue in Edmonton ©Edmonton Events

André Tourigny, head coach of Canada's national junior team, has praised the team for their willingness to adapt amid the circumstances.

He said that staff will review the first game which was held prior to news of the positive tests, while they will seek to keep active amid the quarantine period.

PCR tests are being conducted daily. 

The camp includes 46 players seeking to compete at the Men's World Junior Championships next month.

Competition is set to take place at Rogers Place from December 25 until January 5 2021.

The Championship was originally due to be held jointly by Edmonton and Red Deer in Central Alberta.

No fans will be present at the Championships.