Why were many Canadian Hockey Players allowed to continue playing professional hockey during WWII?

Many Canadian hockey players were allowed to continue playing professional hockey during World War II primarily because they had completed Militia Training with the Non-Permanent Active Militia (NPAM) units. This training made them a part of a military reserve, allowing them to serve in a capacity that did not require active deployment to the front lines. These players could contribute to the home front efforts without being fully enlisted in active service, and their presence in professional hockey was seen as a morale booster for civilians during a challenging time.

The notion of being professional athletes or members of the Royal family is less relevant in this context, as the decision to keep players in their roles was more linked to their military training than their status. While some players may have held exemptions from military service, it was their completed militia training that provided a structure under which they could maintain their professional careers while still being considered potentially available for military service if needed.