OHL Peterborough Petes

Greg Betzold Makes Statement Concerning Social Media Incident

November 7, 2014 - Ontario Hockey League (OHL)
Peterborough Petes News Release


(Peterborough, ON, November 7, 2014)- In the wake of the social media incident that took place at the beginning of the week, Greg Betzold, with the full support of the Peterborough Petes, is urging the public to cease all negative communication with involved parties.

In a statement, Betzold said the following:

"On Monday morning, an excerpt of a conversation I had on Tinder was made public. My language and attitude in that conversation were unacceptable, insulting, and I exercised poor judgment in speaking to an individual in that manner. I am truly sorry to the woman I offended, her family, my own family, the Peterborough Petes, our fans, and the Ontario Hockey League for my insensitive remarks. I am going to use this as an opportunity to reflect on how my words can affect others, and to fully appreciate the standard expected of me as a member of the Peterborough Petes.

The language I used is a result of an attitude and behavioral issue that I have to change. The Peterborough Petes organization has already arranged for me to receive sensitivity training, and I thank them for working with me to address my mistake. I am fully committed to learning from this situation, becoming a positive member of the community, and a positive example of how to treat others.

Furthermore, I have become aware that others have contacted the woman I insulted with inappropriate and threatening remarks. I am asking those people to stop this immediately. It was my mistake to use this language, and she deserves nothing but support in this situation."

Jim Devlin, President of the Petes Board of Directors, added that "it has come to our attention that the young lady that was the target of Greg's communication has and continues to receive threatening and harassing messages through a variety of platforms. The Petes are pleading with the public to refrain from making negative or unsupportive comments toward the woman or any other involved parties."

The Peterborough Petes are committed to promoting mental and physical health for its players, staff, fans, and all members of the community. For mental health questions, contact your local branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association . To seek help, please contact the Government of Ontario's Mental Health Helpline at 1-866-531-2600.

Check out the Peterborough Petes Statistics



Ontario Hockey League Stories from November 7, 2014


The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

OurSports Central