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The head coach of the Swift Current Broncos has resigned after an investigation by the Western Hockey League found he had breached the league’s standards of conduct.
Dean DaSilva left his position as head coach on Friday after being given a five-game suspension by the WHL, which also fined the team $10,000.
The league said DaSilva breached its standards of conduct during two separate on-ice incidents, while he was “in the process of administering player discipline.”
“Accountability is a cornerstone of the WHL’s culture,” WHL commissioner Dan Near said in a statement on Friday.
“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.”
DaSilva’s suspension began on Nov. 5 and ended on Nov. 11, but on Nov. 14, the Broncos announced he had resigned.
“Following careful consideration, it was mutually determined that in the best interest of both Dean and the organization, this is the right path forward,” said Broncos general manager Chad Leslie.
“The Swift Current Broncos are committed to providing a positive environment for all players.”
The move comes two years after the Swift Current Broncos and then head coach Devan Praught “mutually agreed to part ways,” after he was handed a five-game suspension for allegedly violating the WHL standards of conduct.
Lethbridge Hurricanes GM suspended
On Friday, the WHL also announced it had suspended Peter Anholt, the general manager of the Lethbridge Hurricanes. The team was also fined $10,000.
The league said it had determined that Anholt had breached its standards of conduct by using intimidating behaviour and language during a post-game speech to players, after a loss to Edmonton in October.
Anholt will be allowed to return to his duties on Nov. 26.
“My behaviour and language in addressing our team did not meet expectations,” Anholt said in a statement.
“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.”
The WHL said both investigations began after a tip from its anonymous 1-800 tip line, known as the WHL Respect Line.
