Statement from the Ontario Hockey League Regarding Hazing
Published on November 29, 2018 under Ontario Hockey League (OHL) News Release
The Ontario Hockey League is committed to providing a safe environment and creating a positive experience for all players on and off the ice.
As a league we believe that hazing is reprehensible and we have a zero tolerance for any such action.
In 2006 the league's anti-hazing policy was enhanced and today all OHL players are educated on this important subject matter annually through their member team. All players acknowledge to the league in writing on an annual basis that they understand league policy and are encouraged to bring any concerns forward without fear of reprisal.
In addition to the various internal team staff that may assist a player, each team has an independent Ombudsman or Champlain who can hear confidential concerns or complaints. There is also an established channel of complaints or concerns directly to the Commissioner.
The OHL trains all of its players in a program entitled "Talk Today', introduced in 2014, in partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association. Talk Today is one of the most comprehensive mental health programs for amateur sports in Canada. Its aim is to promote the mental health of young athletes, spread awareness, and educate players on the importance of talking about issues and recognizing signs of struggle among their peers. Players struggling, as a result of any team or player related concern, are encouraged to access this program for assistance.
In light of the recent attention that has been paid to the issue of hazing, the league has spoken with team management and all of our member teams are providing a refresher to all staff and players about this most important topic.
Our hope is that through conversation, education, and awareness, the attitudes that lead to hazing behavior and these unthinkable actions disappear from sport and society.
Ontario Hockey League Stories from November 29, 2018
- Petes Claim Victory over Battalion - Peterborough Petes
- Prosvetov Protects Spirit 2-1 Victory over Sting in 39-Save Effort - Saginaw Spirit
- IceDogs Conquer Attack with 6-1 Win - Niagara IceDogs
- Sting Tipped by Saginaw - Sarnia Sting
- Bears No Match for the Dogs Tonight - Owen Sound Attack
- Statement from the Ontario Hockey League Regarding Hazing - OHL
- Another Busy Weekend Ahead for the Steelheads - Brampton Steelheads
- Spirit Host Sting on Student / Military Ticket Rush Night - Saginaw Spirit
- Matthew Papais Commits to Storm - Guelph Storm
- Ottawa 67's and Gatineau Olympiques Alumni Set to Battle It out at TD Place - Ottawa 67's
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.
