THUNDER BAY --- The Thunder Bay Border Cats will not field a team for a third consecutive summer.
Team officials said they were ready to play with the 20 players they had signed, but ongoing concerns about vaccination requirements to cross into Canada forced the Northwoods League’s hand.
“The Border Cats wanted to play and were prepared to play this season with 20 players already under contract, but unfortunately, with the ongoing pandemic it raised concerns at the league level regarding the frequent trips across the border and the uncertainty of the ability of the visiting teams to enter Canada,” said Border Cats president David Valente.
“We truly appreciate the loyalty of our fans, corporate partners, manager Mike Steed, his coaches, and the players and wish to thank them for their patience and understanding during this very difficult and frustrating process.”
The team dropped off of the NWL schedule in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19 restrictions and the 20-month closure of the Canadian and American border. The border reopened to Americans in August, but foreigners are required at this time to produce a negative molecular test before being allowed into the country, and must be fully vaccinated.
The league instead will field the Minnesota Mud Puppies for the second straight summer, the team tasked with playing the Border Cats scheduled road games.
The team said any 2022 season-ticket holders will have their tickets forwarded to the 2023 season, or they can phone 766-2287 for more information.
