Ridge Meadows Minor Ball Hockey calls out members over racist comments

Yet another Lower Mainland minor sports organization is reporting incidents of racism directed at players and parents, but this time, the association is calling out its own membership.

An email obtained by CityNews shows the Ridge Meadows Minor Ball Hockey Association (RMMBHA) sent out a statement to its members saying it’s received multiple reports of racial slurs being “hurled” at players and parents of other associations.

“In the past two weeks, the board has received reports of a number of incidences, in various divisions, related to racial slurs hurled at players and parent spectators from other associations. As we investigate these matters further, we would like to remind everyone about Ridge Meadows Minor Ball Hockey Association’s position on matters such as these,” the email reads, in part.

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The association says it has an “unwavering commitment” to fair play and a code of conduct that emphasizes respect of self and all players.

“There is NO room for racism, discrimination, bullying, or general disrespect of others in our Association or at another Association any where, at any time. Not on the floor, the change rooms, not in the stands, or in the parking lot — NOWHERE,” the RMMBHA added.

The statement also includes an apology to any players, parents, coaches, officials, or spectators who were targeted by the comments. The RMMBHA adds it has already apologized to the other associations involved and is working to ensure the issue is addressed internally.

“We are asking all coaches to have these conversations with their teams and for all parents/guardians to reiterate this message with their players about RMMBHA’s position on issues such as these,” the email continues.

‘Zero tolerance’ for discrimination 

In a statement to CityNews, the RMMBHA reiterates its “zero tolerance” policy for racial discrimination of all kinds.

“In all game situations we rely heavily on referees to hear and report things that may be said on the game surface during game situations. We have received no official reports from any officials of racial slurs hurled at games,” the association explained.

“We take any allegations of race related slurs or any derogatory sexual orientation/gender-based discrimination VERY seriously and investigate all matters with care, sensitivity and following a due process. If other associations are involved, we work with them to investigate such matters.”

The RMMBHA says it will not comment further without more information.

CityNews has reached out to the BC Ball Hockey Association for further comment.