Major Misconduct: Why We Let Kids Fight On Ice

This is a must-listen for parents of kids in contact sports. Tune into CBC Radio One's The Early Edition for a special series "Major Misconduct: Why We Let Kids Fight On Ice". The series will take a closer look at the important issues that surround junior hockey fighting in B.C.

Monday, November 6 – 7:10 a.m.
Major Misconduct
Given what we know about Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), why are hockey brawls still permitted? Guests include a neuro-scientist, a former fighter who thinks he's a crucial part of the junior game and an NHL legend who worries history will judge us for letting it continue.

Tuesday, November 7 – 7:10 a.m.
My First Fight   
Every hockey player remembers their first fight. Tune in to hear first-hand stories from the players themselves about what it was like the first time they dropped their gloves to box on the ice. Guests will include an elite hockey coach, who prepares kids for the reality of junior hockey fighting with boxing training.

Wednesday, November 8 – 7:10 a.m.
James McEwan
One of the toughest players in the history of the Kelowna Rockets, James McEwan was in hundreds of fights and suffered from multiple concussions. Over time, James began to suffer severe depression and had suicidal thoughts. James will discuss his life today and how he has been affected by the sport.

Thursday, November 9 – 7:10 a.m.
Teen Brain Injuries
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) symptoms range from confusion, dizziness and headaches to dementia, deafness, depression and thoughts of suicide. Neurologist Naznin Virji-Babul will provide details on how young people are more vulnerable to concussions than adults and how fighting can hurt the young brain.

Friday, November 10 – 7:10 a.m.
Who Lets kids Fight On Ice?
On the final episode of the series, we'll hear from three WHL fighters who will discuss why they fight, how it feels and whether or not they worry about their health in the future. What do the owners, coaches and general managers think about fighting in junior hockey?
 

CBC Radio One's  The Early Edition with host Rick Cluff airs 5-8:30 a.m. weekdays at 88.1FM and 690AM. Follow us online @cbcvancouver.

For local CBC Radio One programming in your area, visit www.cbc.ca/bc.