The president of the Minor Hockey Alliance of Ontario has confirmed the disbandment of a U-15 team within the West London Minor Hockey Association. The move follows reports that cell phone videos of naked players were recorded in dressing room showers and posted on Snapchat. Two players received suspensions. Three coaches were issued indefinite suspensions pending a disciplinary hearing. The team could not continue without coaches, so eligible players were offered spots on other West London teams.
What happened and how the league responded
Larry Moreland said the association acted after the Ontario Hockey Federation alerted Alliance Hockey more than two weeks ago. The league then reviewed staffing and safety requirements. According to Moreland, the club needed coaches to continue games and practices. That was not possible while the suspensions remained in place. As a result, the roster was dissolved. Players not linked to the allegations were reassigned to keep their seasons on track.
ITP process explained and next steps for players
The two suspended players will enter Hockey Canada’s Independent Third Party (ITP) process. The ITP is an arm’s-length intake and case-management system created in 2022 to handle maltreatment complaints. It does not rule on cases itself. Instead, it ensures confidential, neutral, and fair handling. The ITP can retain external mediators, investigators, and adjudicators. It can also recommend interim measures when needed under Hockey Canada’s Maltreatment Complaint Management Policy.
Safety rules: “rule of two” and no phones in rooms
Hockey Canada’s “rule of two” requires two screened adults to monitor the dressing room or remain immediately outside with the door propped open. The policy also bans cell phones and cameras in dressing rooms. These measures aim to reduce risk and protect minors in private spaces. The reported use of phones in showers runs against those rules.
Police and disciplinary investigations continue
London police said they are aware of a social media post about a local boys’ team and noted an active investigation. The service stated that no further information is appropriate at this time. Meanwhile, the three coaches remain suspended pending a disciplinary hearing. The ITP process will manage the player-related complaints. Timelines were not disclosed.
Why the dissolution matters for West London Minor Hockey
Disbanding the roster allows the association to maintain league play while the case proceeds. It also aligns with safeguarding policies that prioritize player welfare. Reassigning unaffected athletes limits disruption. However, the step underscores the consequences of policy breaches, especially where privacy and minors are involved.
Alliance Hockey and regional context
Alliance Hockey represents 23 minor associations across southwestern Ontario, from Niagara to Sarnia. The body oversees competition standards, eligibility, and discipline. U-15 refers to players under 15 years of age, a key development tier in minor hockey. In this case, Alliance Hockey coordinated with the Ontario Hockey Federation and Hockey Canada to apply policy and process.
In sum, the U-15 team’s dissolution reflects a safety-first approach under Hockey Canada rules. The ITP process and police inquiry will determine any further action. Until then, West London players have been placed on other teams, and league operations continue under enhanced oversight.
