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By paNOW Staff

Hockey Sask. speaks

Hockey Saskatchewan releases statement on Hockey Canada

Oct 8, 2022 | 12:07 PM

On Friday, the board of directors of Hockey Saskatchewan issued a statement on Hockey Canada regarding the ongoing investigations of sexual assault involving members from the 2018 World Junior team.

Hockey Sask. expressed their displeasure with how Hockey Canada is handling the situation and called it ‘unacceptable behaviour.’ The statement read that if no changes are made, they may be forced to take action against Hockey Canada.

“We continue to ask Hockey Canada the questions to which our members and stakeholders are seeking answers,” the statement said. “That is our commitment – to continue working towards an improved and stronger hockey system for our province and all participants across the country. A lack of action by Hockey Canada may lead to Hockey Saskatchewan taking additional steps which may include withholding participant fees.”

“As an organization, we acknowledge that there are very serious issues in the game, and much work is needed to improve the culture. Hockey Saskatchewan will continue to combat the unacceptable behaviour and actions that have no place within our game.”

The statement went on to say they have provided input for Justice Thomas Cromwell and are awaiting the report’s final recommendations, which are expected on Oct. 30. Hockey Sask. also said they’re working with their other branch partners to get answers and action out of Hockey Canada.

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“At the national level, we are working with our branch partners to hold Hockey Canada accountable, undertake actions and provide answers by specific deadlines,” they said. “These efforts must result in meaningful changes to our game. Changes include further development of the Action Plan, including educational resources to help prevent sexual misconduct and other forms of maltreatment.”

Hockey Sask. closed its statement by thanking the players, volunteers, and the hockey community for its dedication to the game.

“Finally, to the entire hockey community in Saskatchewan – rinks are busy, hockey is being played across the province, and for that, we are thankful. That is not going to stop regardless of what is happening at the national level,” they said. “Thank you to the countless individuals – Members, volunteers, and parents – who continue to work hard every day to ensure that games and practices occur for our players.”

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panews@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow