The Fort Frances Lakers Hockey Association is speaking publicly for the first time, following an investigation into inappropriate emails and texts former head coach Bernie Lynch sent to one of his players.
The organization says it was made aware of the incident on January 1, 2021 and the board took immediate action the following day to suspend Lynch without pay, ordering him not to have any further contact with players or other members of the team.
His contract was terminated following an investigation by the Lakers and Hockey Canada.
A team statement reads:
“Members of our organization and the Fort Frances community have been deeply distressed by these events. The FFLHA prioritizes the safety, healthy development, and emotional and mental wellbeing of our players. We undertook a thorough hiring process and reviewed all available information on the qualifications and personal suitability of candidates for this position. No past misconduct was evident from any candidate during that process, including through any criminal record or vulnerable sector checks.
The FFLHA commends those who have come forward to share their experiences of abuse and misconduct in sport. We hope their courage will empower others to do the same. As we focus our efforts on supporting those who may have been impacted by the local events described in recent media reports, we ask for privacy for our players, their families, and others closely involved with our team.”
Lynch joined the team in September replacing long-time bench boss Wayne Strachan.
Some of his past experiences over a 47 coaching career include coaching in Norway at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York, coaching eight world hockey championships, and 15 National championships across several countries.
