Women’s team calls for equal representation on new Hockey Canada board

Canada’s national women’s hockey team put out a statement on Thursday reacting to news earlier this week that Scott Smith has departed Hockey Canada, with the board agreeing to step down as well.

“The recent developments out of Hockey Canada are a first step in what we hope represents the beginning of positive change in the future of hockey in Canada,” the statement reads. “We are confident that a Board that truly embodies the diversity of our country and one that will advocate and fight for a safe and protected environment for all participants and fans will be appointed.”

Initially shared by 2022 Olympic MVP Brianne Jenner, the statement asks for more representation moving forward at Hockey Canada.

“We ask for equal representation with a seat at the table, as we continue to promote and grow the women’s game globally, so that we may bring our perspective and input to ensure that our sport’s national governing body evolves to one that truly represents all Canadians and safeguards its participants,” it said. “As members of the most recent Women’s Canadian National Olympic and World Championships teams, we are proud of the culture and legacy our program has created and would like to thank the partners who continue to stand alongside us.”

Canada’s women’s national team won gold at the 2022 Olympics, and has swept the past two World Championship titles against the United States.

Smith began as Hockey Canada’s CEO in July of 2022, but was immediately thrust into heavy scrutiny for the organization’s handling of sexual assault allegations in 2018. Smith previously stated that Hockey Canada had paid nearly $9 million to settle 21 cases of alleged sexual assault since 1989, including using funds from player registration fees.

This month, most of Hockey Canada’s sponsors, including Tim Hortons, Scotiabank and Canadian Tire, have either reduced its funding to just the women’s and para teams, or pulled support altogether.