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Sheldon Kennedy emphasizes the importance of leading by example for new Oilers GM Bowman
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    Sheldon Kennedy emphasizes the importance of leading by example for new Oilers GM Bowman

    When Stan Bowman resigned from the Chicago Blackhawks in 2021, he began working with former NHLer Sheldon Kennedy and his organization, Respect Group, as part of the process to learn about the prevention of bullying, harassment, abuse and discrimination.

    Three years later, Kennedy has expressed his support for Bowman in his new role as Edmonton Oilers general manager, but encouraged the 51-year-old to “walk the walk” going forward.

    “When I talked to Stan, I said, ‘You’re not going to bluff your way through this. People don’t buy that stuff anymore. You’re going to have to walk the walk and you’re going to have to show people,’” Kennedy said, after Bowman’s introductory press conference with the Oilers on Wednesday. “This isn’t an endgame. He has to continually learn to be better in this space and lead by example.”

    Bowman, along with Joel Quenneville and Al MacIsaac, were banned by the NHL from holding front office or coaching positions after an independent investigation revealed they had mishandled allegations of sexual assault raised by a former player, who later identified himself as Kyle Beach, regarding the team’s video coach Brad Aldrich in 2010. 

    They were reinstated by the league on July 1 and were able to sign with any team beginning on July 10.

    Jeff Jackson, the Oilers’ CEO of hockey operations, said he consulted with Kennedy throughout the process and noted that Kennedy’s personal reflections on his work with Bowman, published on the Respect Group’s website, played a substantial role in his decision.

    “When I talked to Sheldon a couple weeks ago, he gave a full endorsement of Stan’s work, his commitment — the fact that he’s sure that he learned from his mistakes,” Jackson said during his press conference with Bowman. “We wouldn’t have made this hire without knowing that Stan had done all that work.”

    Kennedy, who went public with his experience with sexual abuse in 1996 and was subsequently released by the Calgary Flames, believes the only way for Bowman to fully earn back the trust of the public is for him to continue to do the work and be a leader in promoting a positive culture, on and off the ice.

    “We have to do the work, and Stan is going to have to do the work,” Kennedy said. “We need to understand the big picture here. I think there is a commitment to change. Is it done? Absolutely not. But, is there acknowledgement of the impact on individuals? Absolutely. I think that, to me, that’s the starting point of, you know, moving forward.

    “Don’t get that tunnel vision. These issues need to be prioritized, culture has to be prioritized, and I believe that he understands that.”

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    Former NHL player Sheldon Kennedy recently spoke out about the importance of leading by example for new Edmonton Oilers General Manager, Ken Holland. Kennedy, who is a survivor of sexual abuse by his former junior hockey coach, has been a vocal advocate for child protection and abuse prevention in sports.

    Kennedy emphasized the importance of setting a positive example for others, especially in a leadership role like that of an NHL general manager. He noted that Holland has a unique opportunity to influence not only the players and staff within the organization, but also the broader hockey community.

    Kennedy highlighted the need for leaders in sports to prioritize the well-being and safety of their athletes, both on and off the ice. He stressed the importance of creating a culture of respect, accountability, and transparency within the organization.

    As someone who has experienced the devastating effects of abuse firsthand, Kennedy understands the impact that strong leadership can have on creating a safe and supportive environment for athletes. He commended Holland for his track record of success in the NHL and expressed confidence that he would continue to lead by example in his new role with the Oilers.

    In conclusion, Sheldon Kennedy’s message to new Oilers GM Ken Holland is clear: lead by example, prioritize the well-being of your players, and create a culture of respect and accountability within the organization. By doing so, Holland can not only achieve success on the ice but also make a positive impact on the lives of those he leads.