The OHL has announced a $150,000 fine and two indefinite suspensions for Niagara Ice Dogs general manager Joey Burke and head coach Billy Burke following an investigation into “overall conduct.” Both men are also minority owners of the team. The league announced that the investigation revealed conduct that is “prejudicial to the welfare of the OHL” and “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 be eligible to apply for reinstatement on June 1, 2024. At that time, OHL commissioner David Branch will assess whether they have successfully completed necessary counseling and education. The investigation began after the league received transcripts of a March 6, 2022 WhatsApp conversation.
The Ice Dogs are currently in last place in the Eastern Conference with a 22-38-4 record. The team has not yet released a statement on the suspension or announced who will be taking over either position.
I feel like there’s been whispers about terrible management like this for years now in Niagara. Not surprised at all with this development.
What’s going on
What about Dale Hunter and his long-known condoning of player hazing and humiliation? You know…and the lawsuit? Aren’t the players — just kids — as important as whomever the victims are in this case? Canada has to open its eyes to the cancers of the junior hockey system.
So, you think a system that has 16 year olds missing high school to bare knuckle fight for basically meal money has some flaws?
the kids must hate getting paid to play instead of the parents paying thousands to play less games in less superior leagues. stupid kids making life long memories with thre best friends.
Rumors around St Kitts that Stamkos’ name has popped up as a new owner???
Went to elementary school with these guys.
Can confirm that Joey Burke stole my brother’s beanie babies.
Had to be the seed money for his OHL investment.
Doesn’t daddy own the team?
Ooowee, what’s up with that?