BC Hockey reviewing Hockey Canada controversy

As some provincial hockey leagues pull support for Hockey Canada amid its controversy, BC Hockey is not hinting at any strong action just yet.

BC Hockey says its staff and board “continue to monitor the challenges in our game and all of the developments in recent months.” In a statement, it notes there are “many issues facing sport and sport governance,” including hockey, and that “these matters require thoughtful and collaborative steps toward solutions for the betterment of all.”

Statement from BC Hockey. pic.twitter.com/ktfKSduwhj

— BC Hockey (@BCHockey_Source) October 5, 2022

The statement adds BC Hockey will continue to participate in the review process and monitor input from other agencies, including Hockey Quebec.

This comes after Hockey Quebec announced on Wednesday that it would not transfer funds to Hockey Canada, telling The Canadian Press that its board of directors adopted a motion Tuesday night saying it does not believe the national organization’s current structure can change hockey culture. The resolution was first reported by La Presse.

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• Tim Hortons removes Hockey Canada sponsorship for men’s 2022-23 season

• Hockey Quebec, Ontario Hockey Federation withholding funds from Hockey Canada

• Hockey Canada execs testify in heated sex scandal committee

Hockey Quebec has also decided to keep the portion of registration fees normally handed over to the national organization, which amounts to $3 per sign-up.

Meanwhile, the Ontario Hockey Federation, the largest of Canada’s 13 provincial and territorial hockey federations, has re-sent a formal request to Hockey Canada to not collect the $3 participant assessment fee from its members for the 2022-23 season.

Also, Tim Hortons announced Wednesday it won’t sponsor any Hockey Canada men’s programming this season, including the world junior men’s championship in Halifax and Moncton.

The company, which first suspended its sponsorship in June, says it will continue to fund national women’s and para hockey programs, as well as youth hockey.

Calls continue for Hockey Canada executives to step down after it was revealed the organization has paid out $7.6 million to settle nine sexual assault and abuse claims since 1989.

The organization continues to vigorously defend its leadership amid criticism over the handling of alleged sexual assaults and the way money was paid out in lawsuits.

The revelations include an admission by Hockey Canada that it drew on minor hockey membership fees to pay for uninsured liabilities, including sexual abuse claims.