The league announced the return-to-play tournament on Wednesday. The event will kick off on June 27 in Salt Lake City, Utah. The tournament came with an important caveat — participation is voluntary for all players due to safety concerns during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
When the league began initial plans for the tournament, it raised concern among players. Several U.S. national team members have reportedly declined to play.
However, Skinner said details of the plan are helping his players open up to the idea of participating.
“We haven’t had any nos yet,” Skinner said. “We’ve had quite a few yeses.