The Franchise was also fined $150,000. Less then 24 hours after OHL commissioner David Branches decision, the Burke's had some images leaked online from the popular Whatsapp chat.
Wow I think I speak for most when I say the Ontario Hockey League made the right decision suspending Joey and Billy Burke.
For those who missed the story about the Niagara Ice Dogs Owners who were suspended indefinitely by the Ontario Hockey League.
An investigation against the Burke brothers was reported after a female employee made a complaint to the League after a sexist remark was made to her by the owners.
Statement from the OHL:
"The Ontario Hockey League Commissioner David Branch today announced that Niagara IceDogs General Manager, Team Governor and minority owner Joey Burke and Head Coach and minority owner Billy Burke have been indefinitely suspended and, together with the team, fined a combined $150,000.00. An investigation was launched into their overall conduct following the League receiving transcripts of a March 6, 2022 WhatsApp conversation.
Based on the results of the League investigation, it is the position of the League that their conduct is prejudicial to the welfare of the�OHL as it violates the league's 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.
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."
- Ontario Hockey League
"Last month Sportsnet's Jeff Marek reported that the OHL was launching an investigation after it was alleged that Joey and Billy Burke had made sexist remarks against a female Ice Dogs employee in a group chat. Today's announcement seems like an indictment that indeed the league found sufficient evidence of misconduct by both individuals."
As for the Ice Dogs they've been a complete mess under the Burke's. They're dead last in the OHL and have been near or at the bottom of the league since they took over and now there are reports that the team will be sold to outside investors. Since the Burkes are suspended through the next two seasons, it makes sense for them to divest themselves of the team.
Interestingly enough, former NHL'er Mike Fisher's name has been put forth as a potential owner.
A knowledgeable source tells me that this other offense could be the latest in a problematic family for the OHL.�Former Senator Mike Fisher would be at the head of a group that will buy the team from the Burke family."
- JF�Plante
Should the Burke brothers be banned permanently?
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Should the Burkes be banned permanently? | ||
Yes | 57 | 55.3 % |
no | 46 | 44.7 % |
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