The OHL has concluded its investigation into an off ice incident involving the Niagara Ice Dogs front office. The matter in question surrounds a leaked WhatsApp transcript involving minority owners Joey & Billy Burke.
The league posted a full statement on its website earlier this week:
“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 Leagues’ 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.”
In response to the findings, the Burke brothers took to social media to release a statement of their own:
The Ice Dogs originally broke into the league in 1998 in the city of Mississauga. Following a change in ownership, the team then relocated to St. Catherines in 2007. With the Burkes being unable to re-apply for reinstatement until 2024, and no guarantee they’ll be permitted to retain an ownership role in the league, rumours of an impending sale have already begun circulating.
Niagara currently sits in last place in the Central Division with a 22-38-3-1 record. With only 4 games remaining in their season, the franchise could be in for a very busy offseason when it comes to their roster and front office.