In a January 29 release, Saugeen Shores Winterhawks President Gord Lamont announced that the WOAA is postponing the start of the playoffs following an appeal launched by the Tavistock Royals.

Earlier this month, a Tavistock player received a roughing major in a game in Petrolia, which carries a suspension.

Despite this, the player was dressed for Tavistock’s next two games, including a win over Milverton.

Once this was discovered, the league stepped in and declared the game a forfeit and stripped Tavistock of their win.

In last few days, Tavistock has appealed this decision. The appeal will be heard on Thursday.

The outcome of the appeal is expected on Friday and if it comes out in Tavistock's favour, it could change the playoff matchups.

Given this, the league has ordered that all playoff games scheduled for this weekend, February 1 to 3, be postponed for one week.

Lamont expressed his apologies to Winterhawks fans and sponsors who had planned to attend this weekend’s game. "This situation is out of our control, but is deeply regrettable," read the release.

Playoffs are expected to open on Friday, February 8 but the Winterhawks will confirm once they receive more information.