Allegations against BC organization include alleged sex offender on association board
The suspension of the British Columbia Ball Hockey Association (BCBHA) does not directly impact regional organizations like the Langley-based Volleyball Hockey Association (VBHA).
On Friday, April 12, the Canadian Ball Hockey Association (CBHA) Board of Directors unanimously voted to suspend full membership in the Canadian Ball Hockey Association (CBHA) over allegations, including the presence of an suspected sex offender on its board. announced.
In response to questions from Black Press Media, VBHA Vice-President Alex Joll, on behalf of the Association's Board of Directors, issued a statement on Monday, April 15, stating that there will be no suspension of operations or play.
“I've been told that play for our 850 players will not be interrupted and the league will continue to have full access to the state tournament, national tournament and Western Challenge Cup,” Joll said.
The VBHA statement noted that one BCBHA executive had an “alleged criminal history” and hoped “appropriate precautions will be taken to reduce the risk to youth ball hockey players.” He said that
“The VBHA Board of Directors will refrain from further comment on these matters until BCBHA has had an opportunity to appeal the CBHA's decision,” the statement said.
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CBHA Chairman Tim McKenzie said the decision to suspend was reached “in response to allegations of conduct that violates the CBHA Code of Conduct” pending a full investigation.
An April 10 letter from Mr. McKenzie to the Delta-based BC Association states that bylaws do not comply with the BC Association Act, and that “convicted felons and sex offenders within the BCBHA board It lists nine alleged violations, including allegations of “presence of a person who is subject to theft'' and “financial misconduct.'' It allows for “administrative misconduct” and “discriminatory boycotts” by minor ball hockey associations.
“The collection of these issues highlights an overall picture of an organization that has departed significantly from Fair Play and CBHA's core values and purpose,” McKenzie said.
“The aforementioned allegations and concerns, including but not limited to abuse of power, lack of transparency, misrepresentation, and disregard for inclusivity and fairness, have led to a loss of trust and integrity in British Columbia ball hockey governance. Ta.”
Black Press Media reached out to BCBHA.
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