Editor’s Note: The following story deals with sexual assault. If you or someone you know is in need of support, resources for Canadians can be found here.

 

A lawsuit filed on Tuesday with the Superior Court of Quebec alleges a systemic culture of abuse in the Quebec Maritime Junior Hockey League dating back to the 1970s, filled with sexual, physical and psychological maltreatment.

The class-action suit was originally brought forward by former Quebec minor hockey star Carl Latulippe and was joined Tuesday by five unnamed players, identified as members A-E. The 58-page filing, which has been obtained and reviewed by Sportsnet, details allegations of degrading abuse the six players endured with various teams spanning three decades.

One of the allegations is by a player identified as ‘C’ in the lawsuit, who alleges that, after being taken to a bar and forced to drink until inebriated, the rookies were taken to a home and instructed by a team staff member to have sexual relations with a woman who was there. Player ‘C’ was 17 during his rookie season and alleges he avoided having to do this only when the woman declared she no longer wanted to continue. The lawsuit does not state how many players she had sex with, but says some were crying after leaving the room.

None of the allegations have been proven in court.

When contacted by Sportsnet for comment about the allegations, a QMJHL spokesperson issued a statement that read, in part, “The QMJHL has read the Statement of Claim with great compassion,” adding the league does not have all the details and therefore can’t comment further. “Please know that we are doing everything in our power at the league to properly educate and supervise our players and staff. They know it’s essential to behave properly on and off the ice, and that there’s zero tolerance for any form of abuse.”

The lawsuit was allowed to go ahead after the Quebec Court of Appeal rejected a challenge to its authorization by the league on June 25. The Canadian Hockey League, the QMJHL and its 18 teams are listed as defendants.

The players say the alleged abuse has had long-term effects on their mental health.

The lawsuit seeks $650,000 for Latulippe in damages, including pain, suffering and humiliation, as well as lost productivity and therapy costs, and seeks another $15 million to be shared among the other alleged victims.

— With files from The Canadian Press

The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) is facing allegations of systemic abuse culture that have led to a lawsuit being filed against the league. The lawsuit, filed by former players and their families, claims that the QMJHL failed to protect young players from physical, emotional, and sexual abuse while playing in the league.

The allegations of abuse culture in the QMJHL have brought to light the dark side of junior hockey and the power dynamics that exist within the sport. Many former players have come forward with stories of mistreatment, bullying, and harassment by coaches, teammates, and staff members.

One of the key issues highlighted in the lawsuit is the lack of proper oversight and accountability within the QMJHL. The plaintiffs claim that the league did not have adequate policies in place to prevent abuse or to address complaints when they were made. They also allege that the league prioritized winning games over the well-being of its players, creating a toxic environment where abuse could thrive.

The lawsuit is seeking damages for the harm caused to the plaintiffs as a result of the alleged abuse culture in the QMJHL. It also aims to hold the league accountable for its failure to protect young players and ensure their safety while participating in junior hockey.

In response to the allegations, the QMJHL has stated that it takes all allegations of abuse seriously and is committed to investigating any claims that are brought forward. The league has also implemented new policies and procedures to address and prevent abuse within its teams.

The allegations of systemic abuse culture in the QMJHL serve as a reminder of the importance of creating safe and supportive environments for young athletes to develop and thrive. It is crucial for sports organizations to prioritize the well-being of their players and to take swift action to address any instances of abuse or misconduct.

As the lawsuit against the QMJHL moves forward, it will be important for all parties involved to work towards a resolution that ensures justice for the victims of abuse and helps to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Only by addressing these issues head-on can sports organizations create a culture of respect, safety, and accountability for all athletes.