Entire Hockey Canada board steps down amid sexual assault allegations against two world junior teams
The entire board of Hockey Canada has stepped down after CEO Scott Smith came under fire for the handling of sexual assault allegations by two Canadian world junior teams.
The organisation had been under scrutiny since TSN’s Rick Westhead reported that a woman had reached a settlement with Hockey Canada after alleging she had been assaulted by eight Canadian Hockey League players.
Smith had resisted calls by MPs to resign following Parliamentary hearings investigating Hockey Canada’s response to allegations of group sexual assaults by 2003 and 2018 teams.
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The national governing board paid an undisclosed settlement to a woman who had levied a $3.55 million lawsuit against them.
And in July, it was revealed the body had paid out $7.6 million in nine settlements related to sexual assault and abuse dating back to 1989.
The announcement that the entire board were stepping down comes three days after the interim chair of the board Andrea Skinner tendered her resignation.
That same day Canadian manufacturer Bauer announced they were pausing its role as the official equipment provider to the men’s teams and its sponsorship of men’s tournaments.
It now appears the Hockey Canada board has succumbed to the pressure put on by the public and MPs.
Liberal MP Anthony Housefather told Sportsnet: “I think this is an excellent indication that Hockey Canada is better understanding that change is required and the only question would be who is on the interim management committee and what new board will be elected.
“But this seems to be a great step.”
An interim management committee will be responsible for day-to-day operations, although the members of that team have not been announced.
A new board will be in the palace no later than December 17, 2022, and will be responsible for choosing a new CEO.
Canada’s Minister Of Sport, Pascale St-Onge said in a statement: “While we welcome this news, the interim management committee must be made up of people who want to make real change.
“We expect Hockey Canada to actively work towards a team whose expertise will contribute to better support and training for players, and an environment exempt from sexual violence and discrimination.
“Hockey Canada must develop not only exceptional athletes, but also good citizens who respect women, the public and the law.”
Smith had been with Hockey Canada since 1995 serving as vice president and chief operating officer.
He took over as president and CEO on July 1 2022 after Tom Renney left the organisation in retirement.
Smith survived just over three months in the job.
Topics: Ice Hockey
Jayden Collins