The Greater Toronto Hockey League announced today the results of an investigation into allegations of misconduct that took place during an Under-14 ‘AAA’ game on Monday, November 27, 2023.
The investigation focused on two specific situations:
- An altercation that took place during the game between spectators of both teams and,
- Allegations of a physical confrontation initiated by the head coach of one of the two teams outside of the facility after the game had concluded.
Following the investigation, the League determined that the behaviour of the spectators of both teams did not meet the GTHL’s expectations of a positive and safe environment for all participants. As a result, the spectators associated with each team were fined a total of $1,000. The League further determined that the head coach of one of the teams initiated a physical altercation. This behaviour resulted in the coach receiving a suspension from all Hockey Canada activities, including games and practices, and from attending any League games and/or practices associated with GTHL teams up to and including April 30, 2024. The coach subsequently appealed the decision. The appeal hearing was held on December 22, 2023. The League’s original decision was upheld on appeal.
The GTHL Board of Directors approved a Sanction Disclosure Policy in November 2023, outlining the types of sanctions the League will publicly disclose. The GTHL is committed to ensuring the safest possible environment for its participants.
About the Greater Toronto Hockey League
Founded in 1911, the GTHL is a non-profit organization and the largest minor hockey league in the world. The GTHL registers more than 40,000 annual participants in Markham, Mississauga, Toronto, and Vaughan. The purpose of the GTHL is to govern organized hockey for youth within its jurisdiction, and to foster participation that reflects the cultural demographic of the League’s territory while promoting an environment that is welcoming and inclusive for all participants.
For more information, please contact:
Stephanie Coratti | Senior Manager, Communications and Marketing
Greater Toronto Hockey League
SCoratti@GTHLCanada.com