OMHA investigating on-ice coaches confrontation after a game in Lakeshore

The OMHA is investigating an on-ice confrontation between the coaches of two minor hockey teams in Lakeshore.

The Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) is investigating an on-ice confrontation between the coaches of two local minor hockey teams following a game in Lakeshore.

On Sunday, Nov. 16, the Riverside Rangers U13 A boys travel hockey team beat the Belle River Canadiens U13 A boys travel team 6-5 at the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre.

Following the game, multiple videos show the coaches from both teams yelling, grabbing, and confronting each other on the ice, as the referees try to calm the situation.

OMHA has issued a statement to AM800 News that says, “This incident is currently under investigation, and all bench staff on both teams have been suspended indefinitely pending a hearing. Situations like this have no place in minor hockey and do not reflect the values of the Ontario Minor Hockey Association.”

Belle River Minor Hockey Association president Paul Gray says the association is deeply disappointed that the situation occurred and is cooperating with the OMHA investigation.

The BRMHA posted a statement on their Facebook page:

“We are aware of an incident that occurred over the weekend involving one of our teams/coaches.

As this matter is currently under active investigation by the Ontario Minor Hockey Association, the Belle River District Minor Hockey Association will not be providing specific comments on the incident at this time.

We can share that we are deeply disappointed that this situation occurred. The actions captured do not reflect the values or expectations of Belle River District Minor Hockey members.

We are fully cooperating with the OMHA as their investigation proceeds."

The Riverside Minor Hockey Association directed AM800 News to the OMHA for comment.