WHL coach, GM suspended following standard of conduct investigations

A couple of hockey operations members in the Western Hockey League have been suspended due to their actions.

On Friday, the league announced that, following investigations regarding standard of conduct, Swift Current Broncos head coach Dean DeSilva and Lethbridge Hurricanes general manager Peter Anholt have been suspended.

DeSilva was effectively suspended on Nov. 5, with the Broncos being fined $10,000. The WHL found that he breached the league’s standard of conduct in two separate on-ice incidents, which were in the process of administering player discipline. One occurrence happened in a game at the Prince Albert Raiders on Oct. 24, with the other taking place at a practice on Oct. 27.

The suspension began on Nov. 5, with DeSilva being eligible to return to the bench following Swift Current’s game against the Saskatoon Blades earlier this week.

Anholt’s suspension carries through Nov. 25, with the Hurricanes also being fined $10,000. The investigation found that Anholt used “intimidating behaviour and language during a post-game address to players” after the team lost 8-6 to the Edmonton Oil Kings on Oct. 29.

“My behaviour and language in addressing our team did not meet expectations,” Anholt said in a release. “The Lethbridge Hurricanes have always believed in providing a positive environment for our players. I accept the discipline issued by the WHL and will be committed to a higher standard moving forward.”

Lethbridge senior advisor, Barclay Parneta, will handle the GM duties in the interim.

Both investigations stemmed from tips through the anonymous 1-800 WHL Respect Line. The line provides staff, players and other folks associated with the team an opportunity to confidentially relay concerns that might violate the WHL’s standards.

“Accountability is a cornerstone of the WHL’s culture,” WHL Commissioner Dan Near said. “The WHL holds all members – whether players, coaches, or executives – to clear and consistent standards of conduct. When those standards are not met, we will take the necessary steps to uphold integrity and protect the well-being of everyone involved in our game.”

The league stated that it “imposed remedial measures that include supplementary education and support, enhanced monitoring, and preventative steps to ensure there is no recurrence of similar conduct.”