Chicago Blackhawks executives who were suspended by the NHL for ignoring claims of sexual abuse are REINSTATED three years on
Three Chicago Blackhawks executives who were suspended after they were found to ignore claims of sexual abuse put forth by former player Kyle Beach have been reinstated by the NHL.
Stan Bowman – the organization’s former general manager, Al MacIsaac – Chicago’s former Senior VP of Hockey Operations, and Joel Quenneville – the team’s former head coach – are now all allowed to seek employment in the league once again.
The NHL released a statement late on Monday afternoon – coinciding with the first day of free agency.
‘While it is clear that, at the time, their responses were unacceptable, each of these three individuals (Messrs. Bowman, MacIsaac and Quenneville) has acknowledged that and used his time away from the game to engage in activities which, not only demonstrate sincere remorse for what happened, but also evidence greater awareness of the responsibilities that all NHL personnel have, particularly personnel who are in positions of leadership,’ the statement read.
‘Moreover, each has made significant strides in personal improvement by participating in myriad programs, many of which focused on the imperative of responding in effective and meaningful ways to address alleged acts of abuse.
‘The League expects that they will continue this commitment in any future capacity with the NHL and/or one of our Clubs.’
The statement also says while clubs can discuss employment possibilities with the three men, they cannot officially hire them until at least July 10.
On May 7, 2021, a former Blackhawks player – initially filing as John Doe, later revealed as Kyle Beach – accused former video coach Brad Aldrich of sexually assaulting him during the 2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Beach also alleged that Aldrich physically, emotionally, and financially threatened him.
