Niagara IceDogs General Manager and head coach have been suspended indefinitely by the Ontario Hockey League, the organization said Wednesday, after an investigation into a social media conversation which OHL said contravened the league’s policies on diversity and respect for women.
Joel and Billy Burke, together with the team, have also been fined a combined $150,000.
The league said it had received a transcript of a conversation on WhatsApp last month, which contravened the league’s policies and prompted its commissioner to investigate.
“It is the position of the League that their conduct is prejudicial to the welfare of the OHL as it violates the Leagues’ Harassment & Abuse / Diversity Policy and also runs counter to the OHL’s Onside program which emphasizes the importance of demonstrating respect for women through actions and words,” the Ontario Hockey League Commissioner wrote.
OHL did not provide any details into the contents of the conversation, or who was involved.
Joey and Billy Burke will have the opportunity to apply for reinstatement no sooner than June 1, 2024. At that time, the Commissioner will assess whether they have successfully completed counselling and education to ensure that there will be no additional violations of League rules, policies, or expected conduct.
Niagara IceDogs have not commented on the departure.
