Junior hockey players within the Canadian Hockey League who have experienced abuse or hazing may now have the opportunity to seek compensation through legal channels. Recently, the Ontario Superior Court has approved a procedure for players from the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and Western Hockey League (WHL) to pursue compensation for alleged mistreatment, bullying, or hazing incidents.
Current and former players, dating back to the CHL’s establishment in 1975, are eligible to file claims. The law firm Koskie Minsky LLP, based in Toronto, is managing the claims process, with a deadline set for submissions by April 6.
Gerry Antman, a lawyer and partner at the firm, specializes in cases of institutional abuse and class actions related to personal injuries. He emphasized that this process differs from a typical class action lawsuit, as players must actively apply to be included by detailing the abuse they endured and its lasting impacts on their lives.
Following the Ontario Superior Court of Justice’s decision not to certify a proposed class action by former players against the CHL, this opt-in process has been initiated to address the grievances.
Antman mentioned that his firm regularly hears from former junior hockey players recounting stories of abuse, even in recent years. He expressed dismay at the persistence of such incidents in the present day.
Regarding the league’s stance on the matter, OHL spokesperson Josh Sweetland conveyed in an email to CBC that the CHL and its teams endorse the court’s efforts in establishing the opt-in process. Sweetland highlighted that the league and its teams have been complying with the court’s directives by disseminating information about the claims process on their platforms.
Due to the legal nature of the issue, the CHL refrains from commenting on specific allegations, emphasizing its commitment to prioritizing the safety and welfare of players.
In each legal action, Antman explained that the CHL, the respective regional league, and the implicated team or teams would be named as defendants, ultimately responsible for any compensation payouts. He assured that their team is prepared to assist individuals throughout the process, ensuring a supportive and trauma-informed approach to accessing justice.