Ontario Hockey League Commissioner, David Branch, announced that the league had hired a private investigator to look into allegations of parents paying bribes to secure their child's spot on a team. This news has sent shockwaves through the hockey community, and many are left wondering how this could have happened.
The idea of parents bribing their way into hockey programs is not new, but it is still shocking to see it happening at this level. The Ontario Hockey League is one of the most prestigious junior hockey leagues in the world, and the fact that parents are resorting to such tactics to secure a spot for their child is a cause for concern.
The impact of this behavior is not limited to just the families involved. It undermines the integrity of the league, and the hard work and dedication of players who have earned their spot on a team through talent and hard work. It also sends a dangerous message to young players, suggesting that success can be bought rather than earned.
While it is important to acknowledge the commitment and dedication of most hockey parents, it is equally important to address and condemn this unacceptable behavior. The league has taken a step in the right direction by launching an investigation, but it will take continued efforts to ensure that the integrity of the sport remains intact. It is important to remind parents that their role is to support and encourage their child's dreams, not to buy them.
OHL Commissioner David Branch confirms league hired an investigator to probe allegations that several hockey parents paid for their sons to be selected in 2022 OHL draft.
Three GTHL coaches have told me they have evidence (txt msgs) of parents paying $30K+.
Branch statement: pic.twitter.com/WKdQuYeQXa� Rick Westhead (@rwesthead) March 29, 2023
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Should teams be allowed to accept these bribes? | ||
yes | 53 | 11.8 % |
no | 398 | 88.2 % |
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