Niagara IceDogs coach and GM say they used 'profane language' in WhatsApp chat

The general manager and head coach of the Niagara IceDogs say theyused "profane language" and a "vulgar slang word" in a WhatsApp conversation that led to the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) suspending themindefinitely.

Joey Burke, who is also the team's governor, and head coach Billy Burke, said in a statement shared by the team Thursday that they've apologized and are "devastated" by the sanctions from the league.

OHL Commissioner David Branch announcedWednesdaythe Burkes, both of whom are minority owners of the team that plays in St. Catharines, had beensuspendedfollowing an investigation into comments it foundviolated the league's policy on harassment, abuse and diversity.

The Burkes, along with the team, were alsofined a total of $150,000, the league said.

"Although we are heartbroken, we understand that our positions within the team and the community should have held us to a higher moral standard and for that we are truly sorry," the Burkesstated.

The OHLsaid its investigation was launched after the leaguereceived transcripts of a March 6 conversation on WhatsApp.

It did not providedetails of what those transcripts contained, but said"itis the position of the league that their conduct is prejudicial to the welfare of theOHL as it violates the league'sharassment and abuse/diversity policy."

The OHLsaidthe conduct also"runs counter to the OHL's Onside program which emphasizes the importance of demonstrating respect for women through actions and words."

The Burkes addressed the conversation in their statement, saying they were "venting in a private hockey staff WhatsApp group chat about the perceived lack of coverage from the league after a win."

"Unfortunately, we did use profane language," it read in part.

They added that they were "embarrassed" by the text, deleted it and "apologized directly to our female staff for a vulgar slang word that was used."

The Burkes said they also apologized to othermembers of the chat for their "language and tone."

The OHL said the Burkes cannot apply to be reinstated until July 1, 2024.

If they choose to do so, the league's commissioner willdetermine whether they've completed "counselling and education" to make sure no further violations against league policies will occur.