Is it possible we could see some form of team sports this summer? The answer is yes from Dr. Bonnie Henry, but things may look a whole lot different.

In fact, B.C.’s top doctor wants sports organizations to step up with ideas and plans on how they could run things once some of the restrictions are eased.

“We know that its less risky outside than inside, and we know how important it is to have physical exercise and particularly for young people,” Henry said.

“So I think there are ways it can be done. But we need to look at how do we do it safely, so that we are not sharing water bottles, sharing food, and we’re not coming together in ways respecting those safe distances, but still being able to carry on.”

While the WHL has cancelled the rest of its season, the NHL and the NBA remains hopeful it would be able to complete its regular seasons at some point this year. As well, recreational sports leagues have been affected, as play is suspended because of physical distancing guidelines.

Some sports appear to be better suited to this new normal. Several golf courses across the province are open with strict social distancing guidelines, but team sports like soccer, hockey, basketball, and volleyball may have it a little tougher, as players either share the same ball, of have regular contact with teammates and opponents.

“We are also thinking about the numbers of people that are involved and we may have to limit that for a period of time, you know for this summer, for the coming year, so that we don’t have large crowds watching games for example,” she said.

And even if team sports do make a return, there is little-to-no chance that they’ll be allowed to play in front of fans as Henry doesn’t see the 50 person limit on gatherings being lifted any time soon.