Head Coach Faces Lawsuit For Threatening A Child During Practice

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Hunter Bowman
December 13, 2023 (4:22 PM)

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In recent coverage by TSN's Rick Westhead, a distressing incident in minor hockey has come to light. Parents in the London area are pursuing a $2 million lawsuit against a minor hockey coach, alleging threats and physical assault against their child during a practice

After the child's father filed a misconduct complaint on Oct. 15, the situation escalated when the coach allegedly assaulted the father in a dressing room, accusing him of engaging in "obscene and/or despicable behavior" in front of others.

The local hockey association, co-defendants with Hockey Canada, faces accusations of hiring an investigator deemed "incompetent, partial, unqualified, and/or biased," and failing to involve the police as required.

As a result of reporting the abuse, the family claims their child faced demotion and was stigmatized as "weak" and a "problem player," with allegations that players and parents supporting the coach were rewarded.

These incidents are disheartening, emphasizing the need to prioritize the well-being of the child involved and ensure that youth sports maintain a positive and enjoyable environment. At this level of play, the focus should be on nurturing young athletes' positive experiences.

Source: Bruinsinsider