Marc-André Leclerc’s book, *Le field hockey mis en échec*, addresses the troubling issues affecting field hockey in Quebec, highlighting recent scandals such as sexual assault allegations and abusive practices. Through interviews with players, officials, and other stakeholders, Leclerc seeks to understand competitive culture in the sport and advocates for systemic changes. He emphasizes the need for better training for coaches, accountability, and healthier environments to support athletes. The book serves as a call for reflection and improvement in the sport’s administration.
Quebec shares a collective duty to address the challenges facing field hockey. Author Marc-André Leclerc, motivated by the recent scandals in the sport, explores the underlying issues contributing to the malaise in field hockey in his book, Le field hockey mis en échec.
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“Field hockey holds significant importance for me,” Leclerc emphasizes in a recent interview. The legacy of Quebec was shaped by our heroes, like Jean Béliveau and Maurice Richard. It’s more than just a game—neglecting it is akin to discarding a vital part of our society.”
In recent years, the darker aspects of field hockey have come to light, from sexual assault trials to harsh initiation practices and parental aggression towards officials.
The author acknowledges that hockey is “a sport in critical condition, but one that needs to recover eventually,” as noted in the book.
Pushing Boundaries for Success
In the book, published this week by Éditions du Journal, Leclerc features insights from 20 industry professionals he interviewed.
His goal, as he articulates in the introduction, was to investigate “why individuals, often adults, go to great lengths to achieve victory or pursue their aspirations.”
Le field hockey mis en échec includes perspectives from QMJHL commissioner Mario Cecchini, former Hockey Québec general manager Jocelyn Thibault, and the minister responsible for sports, Isabelle Charest.
Additionally, it comprises testimonials from former players, agents, parents, and athletes from various sports.
Uncovering Hidden Issues
Drawing from his political background, the author perceives the book as a “modest contribution” to the ongoing debate regarding the management and practices of field hockey in Quebec.
“My intention isn’t to criticize anyone. However, I believe there are sections in the book that will reveal new realities to the general public,” Leclerc asserts.
“If this leads to improved parenting, coaching, or management within associations, then that’s a positive outcome,” he adds.
Addressing Recent Scandals
The book does address recent controversies in field hockey, including the trial of five Hockey Canada players for sexual assault and Gilles Courteau’s resignation as QMJHL commissioner following an insider scandal.
Leclerc also examines other significant issues, like the role of agents who often manage young players starting in their early teens.
He highlights concerns about 16-year-olds moving away from home to play junior field hockey, emphasizing the need for awareness in this regard.
The narrative extends to other sports, many of which grapple with their own controversies.
Former artistic swimmer Gabrielle Boisvert reflects, “Currently, I have no connection with any girls on the national team,” illustrating the nature of the relationships in such competitive environments.
The Path to Redemption
By the conclusion of his 245-page book, Leclerc shares his views on the state of field hockey in Quebec, a culture that has faced accusations of toxicity.
He believes hockey can emerge stronger from its current issues. “It’s essential for the sport to improve,” he insists.
“While times are tough, I have faith that the right individuals are in place. The landscape may not be perfect, but field hockey is advancing alongside society. Changes are on the horizon,” he concludes.
Four Strategies for Revitalizing Field Hockey
1. Competently Trained Coaches and Supervisors
Leclerc raises an important question: can we truly expect volunteers to cultivate future athletes who are not only skilled but also “good influences outside the sport”?
He argues that field hockey would greatly benefit from coaches and supervisors with proper university training. Financial investment from the government is crucial, as funding for sports should be viewed as an investment rather than a burden.
2. Accountability for Regional Managers
Leclerc expresses surprise at Jocelyn Thibault’s resignation from Hockey Québec just two years after his appointment. He emphasizes that it’s evident that restoring an entire sport cannot rely on a single individual.
While discussing the structure of Quebec’s 14 administrative regions, he states, “All regional field hockey managers should be accountable to Hockey Québec.”