Junior hockey players in the Canadian Hockey League who have experienced abuse or hazing may now seek compensation through legal channels. The Ontario Superior Court has approved a process for players from the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and Western Hockey League (WHL) to pursue claims for alleged mistreatment. Current and former players dating back to the establishment of the CHL in 1975 are eligible to submit claims by April 6. The law firm Koskie Minsky LLP, based in Toronto, is managing the claims process. Gerry Antman, a lawyer and partner at the firm, specializes in cases of institutional abuse and class actions involving personal injuries.
This compensation process differs from a typical class action lawsuit as players must actively apply to participate by detailing the abuse they endured and its lasting effects on their lives. The initiative follows the Ontario Superior Court of Justice’s decision not to certify a class action brought forth by former players against the CHL.
Antman disclosed that his firm frequently hears from former junior hockey players recounting stories of mistreatment, some occurring in recent years. When questioned about the specifics of the alleged incidents, Antman indicated that the details are too distressing to discuss openly.
OHL spokesperson Josh Sweetland confirmed that the CHL and its teams endorse the court’s efforts in establishing the opt-in process for compensation claims. The league and its teams are complying with the court’s directives by disseminating information about the process on their respective platforms. Sweetland emphasized the CHL’s commitment to player safety and well-being and stated that due to ongoing legal proceedings, the league refrains from commenting on individual allegations.
In each legal action, Antman explained that the CHL, regional leagues, and the relevant teams where the plaintiff played would be named as defendants responsible for any compensation awarded. He assured that his team is prepared to assist individuals through the process with a focus on ensuring access to justice in a supportive and trauma-informed manner.