University of Ottawa men's hockey won't ice 2015-16 team
Sexual assault allegations led to charges against two players, a fired coach and team suspension
The University of Ottawa will not ice a men’s hockey team for a second year in a row in 2015-16, further fallout after an incident in February 2014 during a team trip to Thunder Bay, the school has announced.
The Gee-Gees men’s hockey program was initially suspended in March 2014 after allegations of sexual assault linked to the trip. Two former players have been charged in the case and the head coach, Réal Paiement, was fired as a result.
- Gee-Gees team suspension more than about police charges
- University of Ottawa men's hockey players to launch class-action lawsuit
"Even though we have reviewed some of our practices and procedures, we feel it is essential to wait for the task force on respect and equality to submit its report, which is expected shortly," Rock said in a news release.
"We are also looking to hire a new men's hockey coach … Given these circumstances, we feel that this is the best decision."
School wants to dress competitive team
The university has informed Ontario University Athletics, which oversees varsity sports, about its absence in next year's schedule. The school also said the program would have had a difficult time recruiting the best student-athletes for next year.
"Most universities are already well into the process of assessing and selecting their rosters. To perform well, the University of Ottawa would need to recruit more than 20 high-calibre student-athletes," the release stated.
The release does say the university aims to have a team ready for the 2016-17 season.
This news comes three days after 24 members of the 2013-14 Gee-Gees hockey team announced they want to launch a class-action lawsuit against the university.
The case seeks $6-million in damages for players who say they were not involved in the incident.