The Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL) is aware of the statement released today by the Mississauga Rattlers Hockey Association and the Under-16 ‘AA’ Mississauga Rattlers team.  

Team Officials have several requirements they must meet in order to be eligible to participate. These requirements include certain credentials they must obtain, such as submission and approval of a Vulnerable Sector Check, with the final stage being registered and approved to the Team’s roster before they are permitted to participate. Participants of games must also have their name recorded on the game sheet. These requirements and processes are put in place to protect children and youth.

The Special Committee thoroughly reviewed the matter in accordance with GTHL Regulations adopted by GTHL Members, including representatives of the Mississauga Rattlers and all Clubs impacted by this decision. Following review, the Special Committee concluded that the individual was never registered to the Team, nor was the individual recorded on any game sheet in which they participated.

The Mississauga Rattlers Hockey Association have acknowledged this and have accepted responsibility for this matter. GTHL Regulations, put in place by GTHL Organizations, require the outcome that the Special Committee imposed.

Just as this decision directly impacts the Rattlers team, it also impacts several other GTHL teams, reinforcing the need for consistency and fairness. The team involved was given the opportunity to provide both written and oral submissions. All impacted Clubs were invited to attend the hearing. When additional documentation was required, the hearing was reconvened to provide the Mississauga Rattlers team with a full and fair review.

The original decision overturned the game results of 16 games. After careful consideration, the Special Committee determined that an error had impacted its decision on two of the 16 games reviewed. The decision was reissued to impact 14 games up until December 6, 2024, updating the game results and standings accordingly.

The GTHL has been notified by the Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) that an appeal application has been submitted. The League is in the process of responding to this application.

The GTHL remains committed to transparency, fairness, and ultimately the safety of all participants.

ABOUT THE GREATER TORONTO HOCKEY LEAGUE

Founded in 1911, the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL) is a non-profit organization, home to more than 30 community recreational programs and the largest minor hockey league in the world. The GTHL registers more than 30,000 annual participants in Markham, Mississauga, Toronto, and Vaughan. The purpose of the GTHL is to empower, innovate, and provide hockey experiences that foster growth, inclusion, and excellence for all participants, while providing an enriching, equitable, and inclusive environment that benefits all members and the broader community.

For more information, please contact:  

Stephanie Coratti
Senior Manager, Communications and Marketing
Greater Toronto Hockey League
SCoratti@GTHLCanada.com