Mankato, Minn. --- The Minnesota State men's hockey team has paused all team-related activities, including practice, due to positive COVID-19 test results.

The positive results were detected during COVID-19 testing of the team, which is being conducted three times per week in accordance with Executive Order 20-99 and the Minnesota Department of Health's COVID-19 Sports Guidance for Higher Education.

Following contact tracing, it has been determined that the student-athletes, along with coaching and support staffs that were deemed close contacts would need to be quarantined or isolated in accordance with established protocols and guidance provided by health officials. The quarantining and isolation periods would then conclude with a phased return to activity and cardiac protocols that can vary based on the severity of symptoms.

In addition to Monday's game at Bemidji State, Kevin Buisman, Minnesota State's Director of Athletics, has announced that this weekend's upcoming home games vs. Bemidji State have also been postponed.  The Mavericks and the Beavers were slated to play Friday and Saturday in Mankato.

"It's an unfortunate turn of events, as I know how excited our coaches and players were to get back on the ice.  The team looked very impressive in that season-opening game against Bemidji State," said Buisman.  "It's important, however, that we maintain safety as our top priority.  The health and personal welfare of our student-athletes and coaches will always come first.  We will implement appropriate medical protocols during this pause in activity and look forward to the opportunity to return to competition after carefully and thoughtfully following that guidance."