Pair slapped with indefinite suspension by OHL
A leaked screenshot of a WhatsApp transcript that landed the two minority owners of the Niagara IceDogs an indefinite suspension, sheds light on why the OHL was heavy handed in its sanctions against the pair.
The screenshot which shows a WhatsApp exchange between GM Joey Burke and his brother, Coach Billy Burke contains profane language aimed at the OHL after the league showed only one goal of an IceDogs game during a highlight package, even though the team won 4 -0 that night.
Yesterday the pair issued a statement apologizing for the exchange.
The two explain "we were venting in a private hockey staff WhatsApp group chat about the perceived lack of coverage from the league after a win. Unfortunately, we did use profane language, but it was not racial in any sense, nor was it abusive or directed at any IceDogs staff member (male or female) or any players. Embarrassed by our text, we deleted the message right away and apologized directly to our female staff for a vulgar slang word that was used. We also apologized to everyone involved in the chat for the language and tone, long before we knew the chat was leaked."
The two can apply for reinstatement in June of 2024.
Click here for the full statement.
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