Junior hockey players in the Canadian Hockey League who have experienced abuse or hazing could potentially receive compensation through legal channels. The Ontario Superior Court has greenlit a process for individuals who participated in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and Western Hockey League (WHL) to pursue claims for alleged mistreatment, harassment, or hazing incidents. Claims are open to both present and former players, with eligibility stretching back to the establishment of the CHL in 1975.
Koskie Minsky LLP, a law firm based in Toronto, is managing the claims process, with submissions accepted until April 6. Gerry Antman, a lawyer and partner at the firm, specializes in cases of institutional abuse and class actions involving personal injuries. Notably, this procedure differs from a typical class action as players must actively seek inclusion by detailing the nature and repercussions of the abuse they endured, both in their youth and its lasting effects into adulthood.
Following the Ontario Superior Court of Justice’s decision not to certify a class action proposed by ex-players against the CHL, the opt-in process was introduced. Antman mentioned that his firm frequently hears from former junior hockey players recounting their abuse experiences, some of which are recent and troubling. When asked about the specifics of these incidents, Antman deemed them too distressing to discuss openly.
In response to inquiries, OHL spokesperson Josh Sweetland affirmed the CHL and its teams’ endorsement of the court’s initiative for the opt-in process. He highlighted that the league and its teams have been complying with the court’s directives by disseminating information about the process on their platforms. Sweetland emphasized the CHL’s commitment to prioritizing player safety and well-being, refraining from commenting on individual allegations due to ongoing legal proceedings.
Antman explained that in each legal action, the CHL, the respective regional league, and the involved team or teams would be named as defendants, liable for any potential compensatory payouts. He assured that their team is prepared to assist individuals navigate the process with sensitivity and support, ensuring access to justice in a manner that is trauma-informed and empowering.
