A dramatic change in the QMJHL: the commissioner, Gilles Courteau, resigned on Sunday afternoon.
In a letter published on his social networks, Mr. Courteau indicates that his resignation is effective immediately.
“Even though it’s not an easy decision to make, it is necessary,” he wrote. In addition, recent events have taken on such proportions that my family members have suffered. To persist would have been stubbornness. »
“I would like my withdrawal to be understood by all the actors concerned, parents, players, coaches, owners, amateurs, as the beginning of a turn, another turn. Because we have come a long way in 37 years. Of that I am proud. »
This decision comes on the heels of stories of violent initiations in the three different Canadian junior leagues. In recent weeks, the commissioner has denied in parliamentary committee that such a case could have occurred within his circuit. However, according to the class action lawsuit filed in Ontario, the player Stephen Quirk alleges that he was the victim of sexual abuse between 1995 and 1998.
Confronted by The Press, Mr. Courteau then confessed his mistake. Shortly after his testimony, The Press also revealed that Mr. Courteau had nevertheless admitted under oath in 2021 to having already noted “problems” related to hazing in the LHMJQ.
On Friday, Prime Minister François Legault asked to hear one last time Mr. Courteau give his version of the facts in a parliamentary committee.
“I have acted, throughout these years as a good father, to help the players to fully live their passion as an athlete and prepare them for a fulfilling civic life,” he continues in his letter. My journey has not been without faults, but it has been guided by the desire to give the best of myself to young people. »
“The love of hockey is born at home, grows with the coaches, ignites with the cries of the spectators. The team becomes the center. It’s strong. It’s beautiful. But there are still risks of harmful practices. Let’s make sure there are no more, neither in hockey nor in other competitive sports. Let’s take the necessary steps for the good of our young people and the beauty of sport. »