The CI Aggregator is a compilation of recent stories regarding the hockey world, The Carnegie Initiative, our Board members, other industry influencers, similar organizations doing work to change the culture of the game, related issues, and anything aligned with our important mission to make hockey more inclusive, supportive, and welcoming to all.
A new edition is posted each Friday.
Please feed us news! We welcome submissions to be considered for the weekly “CI Aggregator. Send stories to “[email protected]” with “CI Aggregator” in the subject line.
WEEKLY RECAP: Friday, November 10, 2023
Scroll. Read. Click on headline for full story.
Jeremy Rutherford, The Athletic, Nov. 9, 2023
In the wake of former NHL player Adam Johnson’s death from an injury suffered during a game in England in late October, many expected that USA Hockey would mandate the use of neck guards. Instead, on Friday, the organization that governs organized ice hockey in the United States issued a statement reiterating a “recommendation” to wear neck protection but did not change its policy.
Why?
It’s not for lack of understanding of the gravity of the situation, Dr. Michael Stuart, USA Hockey’s chief medical officer and chair of its Safety and Protective Equipment Committee (SPEC), emphasized to The Athletic this week in explaining the decision and what needs to come next from the organization’s perspective.
Ontario Hockey League and Fat Bastard Burrito announce multi-year partnership
Yahoo Finance, Nov. 9, 2023
TORONTO, Nov. 9, 2023 /CNW/ – Today, The Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and Fat Bastard Burrito announced a multi-year partnership naming Fat Bastard Burrito the official burrito partner of the OHL. The sponsorship will place a special focus on highlighting the league’s top nightly performers throughout the regular season and into the playoffs across the league’s social media platforms.
West Virginia University, Nov. 9, 2023
Mountainlair, Gold Ballroom
1550 University Avenue, Morgantown, WV 26506
Why is it that professional sports remain a bastion for violence against women? What are the conditions that allow a culture of toxic masculinity to persist despite awakenings elsewhere in society? What is the path forward, and how do we make officials, coaches and athletes accountable?
Walter DeKeseredy, a professor in the Dept. of Sociology and Anthropology at Eberly College and author of “Skating on Thin Ice: Professional Hockey, Rape Culture, and Violence against Women,” will discuss the culture of toxic masculinity in professional hockey and how sport and society can change the narrative on violence during a presentation and book signing event on Monday, Nov. 13 in the Mountainlair Ballrooms from 2-5 p.m.
Copies of the book will be available to purchase at the event.
Karl Subban on his new children’s book “The Hockey Skates”
The Suburban, Nov. 9, 2023
Jenn sits down with Karl Subban to speak about his new children’s book “The Hockey Skates”
This is part one of an ongoing series we have with Karl Subban- he’ll be speaking about much more than just his book in the coming episodes so stay tuned!
Kraken forward Jordan Eberle has leg cut by skate blade in practice
Regina native to miss Thursday game vs. Avalanche with ‘day-to-day’ injury
The Associated Press, Nov. 9, 2023
Seattle Kraken forward Jordan Eberle will miss the game at Colorado on Thursday night after suffering a cut to his leg from a skate blade during practice.
Kraken coach Dave Hakstol said after the morning skate Thursday at Ball Arena that Eberle was “day-to-day right now as we go forward.” Eberle arrived at the rink with his teammates.
Eberle suffered the cut during a practice on Wednesday. Seattle general manager Ron Francis told The Seattle Times that Eberle suffered a cut near his quad muscle and had an MRI to determine the severity of the injury.
Canadian women’s hockey team stymied by Frankel as U.S. wins Rivalry Series opener
Game 2 is Saturday in L.A. before most players report to PWHL training camps
John Marshall, The Associated Press, Nov. 09, 2023
Hilary Knight has played in four Olympics, 13 world championships and been a part of the U.S. women’s national team since 2007.
Now the Americans’ captain at 34, she may be getting better instead of slowing down.
Knight had a goal and an assist, Aerin Frankel stopped 31 shots and the United States beat Canada 3-1 in the opener of the Rivalry Series on Wednesday night in Tempe, Ariz.
Surviving the game: Ted Nolan tackles racism in hockey memoir
Former NHL coach of the year from Garden River First Nation opens up about a hockey career dogged by racism in his book, Life in Two Worlds
James Hopkins, Soo Today, Nov. 8, 2023
It was a watershed moment of sorts for Ted Nolan.
During an interview about truth and reconciliation with TSN three years ago, the former National Hockey League coach of the year began speaking his truth about the racism that had dogged him from the time he was a junior hockey player all the way to his illustrious coaching career.
He suffered so many emotional breakdowns while recounting his experiences he could barely get through the interview, which would go on to form the basis for the 2021 documentary The Unwanted Visitor.
“All the past trauma issues that I went through came to the forefront,” Nolan said during a recent interview with SooToday.
Candidates To Serve As The PWHL’s First Commissioner
The PWHL can’t continue without a commissioner. Here’s a look at candidates for the position.
Ian Kennedy, The Hockey News, Nov. 8, 2023.
Only a few months ago, there was the PHF and PWHPA. One was led by a commissioner, the PHF’s Reagan Carey, and the other was guided by a lead consultant, Jayna Hefford.
Now, with the two previous groups dissolved, and the new PHWL being launched, a league is on its way, but without a commissioner at the helm. Instead, Hefford, with the title of senior vice president of hockey operations is for the time bring running the show alongside a small group of front office staffers. When the PWHL launches in January, they’ll be the only league in professional North American sport without a commissioner.
BROCK MCGILLIS LAUNCHES ‘CULTURE SHIFT TOUR’ TO VISIT 100 TEAMS IN CANADA’S SEVEN NHL CITIES
Brock McGillis is heading across Canada to talk to 100 youth teams in 100 days to ensure hockey takes crucial steps toward being a welcoming space. Ian Kennedy has details on that and more.
Ian Kennedy, The Hockey News, Nov. 8, 2023
Brock McGillis wants to change hockey culture, so he’s taking to the road.
The former professional goaltender, who was hockey’s first openly gay professional player, plans to visit 100 high-school aged youth teams in 100 days across Canada to share his story, “embarking on a mission this upcoming hockey season to ensure the game of hockey takes important strides to be a welcoming space.
“I love the game of hockey, and I want it to continue to thrive and grow,” said McGillis.
“That means ensuring the game is fun and welcoming to everyone who wants to play. This Tour is about celebrating the game of hockey, while acknowledging that we can be doing better to ensure everyone feels welcomed to participate.“
McGillis’ ‘Culture Shift Tour’ will stop in all seven Canadian NHL markets, sharing his own story as a case study to humanize the experience of those from the LGTBQ+ community or others in hockey who may not feel welcomed or safe in the game.
Métis girls welcomed to Edmonton Oilers hockey camp in unique partnership program
Emily Mertz, Global News, Nov. 8, 2023
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government teamed up with the Edmonton Oilers for a hockey camp initiative to foster Indigenous youth — specifically Metis girls — participation in hockey.
Five Métis girls were invited to participate in the Edmonton Oilers U9 girls hockey camp this past summer, which was held July 24 and 28 in Edmonton.
The camp had two hours of ice time each day, with an Oilers player and Oilers Alumni member making special appearances.
The campers also had four specialty sessions in physiotherapy and concussion management, diversity and inclusion, yoga and nutrition.
Maple Leafs’ NHL all-star game plan includes watch parties, fan fair
Toronto stepped forward to host last season, when it became apparent the NHL wouldn’t be able to pull off the World Cup of Hockey.
Kevin McGran, Toronto Star, Nov. 8, 2023
The NHL hype machine is starting to gear up for the 2024 All-Star Game, hosted by the Maple Leafs.
The Metro Toronto Convention Centre will hold a fan fair from Feb. 1 to 4, including the chance to have pictures taken with the Stanley Cup. Other trophies and NHL memorabilia will also be on display.
The league also promises a kids zone, appearances by current players, alumni and team mascots, and official watch parties for the skills competition as well as the Feb. 3 All-Star Game at Scotiabank Arena.
Toronto Signs Second Overall Pick Jocelyne Larocque
PWHL Toronto has signed Team Canada stalwart and second overall pick Jocelyne Larocque to a three-year guaranteed contract.
Ian Kennedy, The Hockey News, Nov. 8, 2023
PWHL Toronto has signed second overall pick Jocelyne Larocque to a three-year contract, finalizing their three-year guaranteed deals.
Larocque, 35, is one of Canada’s most decorated active athletes winning two Olympic and three World Championship gold medals, six silver medals at the events, along with two NCAA titles, three WWHL championships, and a CWHL title.
Larocque is arguably the best defensive defender on the planet, and has served as an assistant captain for Canada’s national team since 2018.
One of sport’s fiercest rivalries comes to Mullett Arena as Team USA meets Canada in women’s hockey
Chase Beardsley, Cronkite News, Nov. 8, 2023
TEMPE – Arizonans have witnessed many big sporting events take over the state’s arenas throughout the years. However, they will see something many have never seen before when the United States women’s national hockey team faces off against Canada in the 2023-24 Rivalry Series, with the first of the seven-game competition tipping off Wednesday night at Mullett Arena.
The matchup between Team Canada and Team USA is as fierce and as passionate as any rivalry in any sport. It stretches back decades, with the two sides facing each other countless times in the past and mostly, inevitably, in the final rounds of the Olympics and tournament play. In fact, every women’s Olympic gold medal game has been between the two countries with the exception of one year.
The Carnegie Initiative, Nov. 7, 2023
Issue No. 9 of our newsletter includes: a wonderful welcoming message by Bernice Carnegie; Richard Norman, PhD provides an update on his research and his thoughts on The Carnegie Initiative; our 2022 Annual Report and more.
First Nations hockey player provides inspiration to her university teammates
Sam Laskaris, Windspeaker, Nov. 7, 2023
“She’s driven and she’s got a goal. She’s going to graduate here. I get emotional thinking about it. She’s quite the inspiration for all of us.” — UBC Thunderbirds head coach Graham Thomas
Points are hard to come by for Kennesha Miswaggon.
But the 22-year-old member of Pimicikamak Cree Nation, Man. is again a big reason why the University of British Columbia (UBC) women’s hockey team is enjoying so much success this season.
This marks the second year Miswaggon has been playing with Thunderbirds’ captain Rylind MacKinnon, forming the team’s top defensive pairing.
Hockey is most expensive youth sport: Here’s how parents, coaches can save money
Eric Guzmán, Detroit Free Press, Nov. 6, 2023
For the first time in eight years, the Clark Park Coalition didn’t get a grant it relied on to ensure dozens of youth hockey players had the equipment they needed for the season.
“We were able to outfit every small child that came into Clark Park,” said Clark Park Hockey Association Vice President Robert Ayala, about the $2,000-$3,000 grant he used to buy equipment like helmets, gloves, hockey pants and pads and hockey bags for aspiring players ages 4 to 8.
In July, when Ayala learned his group didn’t get the grant, he immediately took to social media for what he called an “equipment drive.” Three months later, the coalition in southwest Detroit has received enough equipment and monetary donations from the Grosse Pointe Bulldogs, Kensington Valley Hockey Association and members of the community to replace older equipment, outfit 150 kids and donate excess equipment to other programs in need.
“For the first time in a long time, we’re good, even without the grant,” Ayala said.
Hockey Canada announces roster for Rivalry Series
TSN.ca, Nov. 5, 2023
Hockey Canada announced the 23-player roster Sunday that will compete against the United States in the first two games of the Rivalry Series set for Nov. 8 and Nov. 11.
The roster features three goaltenders, eight defence, and 12 forwards.
Remember this? The raising of number five
The morning after 19 went to the rafters we remember number 5, Adam Foote
SooToday.com, Nov 5, 2023
From the archives of the Sault Ste. Marie Public Library:
Can you remember the Soo Greyhound alum that said, “There was this hype about the guy who didn’t want to come here. I took it personally…and I was so motivated to play against him” (Sault Star, 16/03/2012, p. 14)?
The player that is referred to in this quote is none other than Eric Lindros, who was the focus of controversy when it was his turn to be drafted into the Ontario Hockey League – a league that is known as one of, if not the best developmental league for young players who wish to pursue a career in hockey.
Our Soo Greyhounds have played a part in the development of many National Hockey League players who have made a name for themselves, including the rugged defenseman that ‘took it personally’ when Lindros did not want to play for the Greyhounds, Adam Foote.
Color of Hockey: Edwards 1st Black player for U.S. women’s national team
Wisconsin sophomore forward ‘humbled and grateful’ to play against Canada in Rivalry Series
William Douglas, NHL.com, Nov. 6, 2023
Laila Edwards said she felt a flow of emotions when she read the email from USA Hockey inviting her to join the U.S. women’s national team in the 2023-24 Rivalry Series against Canada.
“I was definitely super-excited and just humbled and grateful,” Edwards said. “Nervous, too. It’s my first time playing at that stage.”
The 19-year-old University of Wisconsin sophomore forward also felt a sense of history.
Blackhawks sued again for ignoring assaults
Emily Kaplan, ESPN. Nov 6, 2023
A second former player has sued the Chicago Blackhawks, claiming they covered up sexual assault allegations leveled against video coach Brad Aldrich in 2010.
The lawsuit, which was filed on Thursday in Cook County (Illinois) Circuit Court, cites 15 counts of negligence, and claims that Aldrich “groomed, harassed, threatened, and assaulted” the player, who is remaining anonymous as John Doe. In a news conference Monday, Doe’s lawyer, Antonio Romanucci of Romanucci & Blandin, claimed the Blackhawks “allowed and perpetuated the conduct, and placed winning over the health and welfare of its players.”
John Doe’s lawyers identified him as a player who was between 19 and 20 years old when he was called up as a Black Ace — a prospect who joins the team for the postseason — during Chicago’s run to the 2010 Stanley Cup Final. During that time, according to his lawsuit, Doe was targeted and sexually harassed by Aldrich, who “used his authority” to threaten Doe’s career. Doe claims that evidence and reporting of Aldrich’s misconduct to team leadership was not handled appropriately. According to his lawyers, Doe left the Blackhawks organization shortly after and has been playing professionally in Europe ever since.
Robertson eager to be ‘good role model’ for young Asian players
Jason Robertson shared his thoughts on Hockey Night in Canada
Matt Cudzinowski, The Hockey News, Nov. 5, 2023
Jason Robertson is just the second Filipino American to play in the NHL after Tim Stapleton.
Robertson, 24, was a guest on Hockey Night in Canada’s “After Hours” with broadcaster Scott Oake following Saturday night’s game at Rogers Arena in Vancouver.
The Stars’ sniper discussed being someone fellow youngsters of Asian descent could look up to.
“I think the most humbling and one of the most special moments is when young kids will come up to me and say, ‘I look like you, I want to get in hockey, I want to be like you.’ It’s very touching,” said Robertson. “It puts a responsibility on me to be a good person and a good hockey player. I just have to fulfill that, encourage that, and show off the morals that I had when I was a kid and just be a good role model.”
Ex-NHL coach details racism and other hurdles on his path to the bigs
Reviewed by Gilbert Gregory. The (Winnipeg) Free Press, Nov. 4, 2023
Ted Nolan is proud of who he is, and wants to set the record straight. He wants to put to rest all the rumours that have dogged him over the years and to let the hockey world know he’s not going to let other people get him down. He accomplishes this and more in his memoir, Life in Two Worlds: A Coach’s Journey from the Reserve to the NHL and Back, co-written with Meg Masters.
The book’s title perfectly describes the 65-year-old Nolan’s journey from Garden River First Nation near Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., to the National Hockey League, where he received the Jack Adams Trophy in 1997 as coach of the year — this after a journeyman career as a player and a brief stint in the NHL cut short by a back injury when he was 27 years old. Nolan’s coaching resumé includes nearly 500 games in the NHL, leading two junior teams to league and national championships and guiding Latvia to its first Olympic berth in 2014.
From the Archive: McKegney Was The NHL’s First Black Star
The Montreal native scored a career-high 40 goals with the Blues in 1988
Michael Augello, The Hockey, News, Nov. 4, 2023
Willie O’Ree made history as the first Black player in the NHL in 1958, but it wasn’t until 1980 that Tony McKegney became the first Black player to be featured as the main star on the cover of THN. McKegney, 22, was just the fourth Black player to make the NHL, joining the trailblazing O’Ree as well as Mike Marson and Bill Riley (both of whom played in the NHL from 1974 to 1979). McKegney, however, was the first Black player to attain NHL stardom.
More than 40 players now signed to play in the PWHL
Securing equipment on to-do list for league as teams open training camps on Nov. 15
Karissa Donkin, CBC Sports, Nov. 3, 2023
More than 40 players have now signed contracts to play in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), as the league prepares to open its first training camps later this month.
As of late Friday morning, Ottawa and Boston led the way with 11 signings each. The contracts range in length from one to three years, but financial terms haven’t been released.
The collective bargaining agreement requires an average base salary of $55,000 US for players in the new league this upcoming season, while the minimum salary is set at $35,000. No more than nine players per team can make the minimum salary, teams are required to have at least six players on three-year contracts that will pay them at least $80,000 per season.