Winnipeg Hockey Family embroiled in Defamation Lawsuit; Young Player Benched

A Winnipeg minor hockey player found himself off the ice for his team’s season finale after his parents initiated a defamation lawsuit against a South Winnipeg Hockey Association (SWHA) board member. the legal action stems from an email sent to team families that the parents claim was defamatory.

The Lawsuit: Allegations of Defamation

Corey and Elena Russo Rusak allege that an email sent on Dec. 23 by a SWHA board member,Shah,contained statements that were “defamatory,untrue and was maliciously stated” wiht the intent to damage their reputation. The email, according to the lawsuit, referenced an inquiry into concerns raised by team members, including complaints about the couple.

The Rusaks, who served as assistant coach and co-manager, faced accusations of “inappropriate language and threats” after a Dec. 14 game. According to Shah’s email, the SWHA board, after interviewing three families who witnessed the incident, determined that parent misconduct had occurred. Consequently, both parents were removed from their team roles.

“They fired us publicly in an email that went to every parent,” Rusak said.”We found out when every other parent found out,” Russo Rusak added.

The Rusaks’ Perspective: Denials and Safety Concerns

Rusak denies the allegations of threats and inappropriate language, stating he confronted the coach to “stop benching the kids” and yelling at them. He emphasized his role as assistant coach,stating,”I’m trying to keep the kids safe,that’s my job,when you take these courses as assistant coach.”

SWHA’s Response: Suspension and Protecting Volunteers

Following the filing of the lawsuit, the SWHA suspended the player, citing a Hockey Manitoba by-law that allows for suspension if legal action is taken before exhausting internal appeals.mason from SWHA said that the board held three separate two-hour meetings to address the situation, emphasizing that the decision to suspend the child was not taken “lightly.”

“We really didn’t want to suspend the child as well because the child has no part in this, but we thought it was best for both parties that there was a full suspension of both the parents and the child. We didn’t take that lightly,” he said.

Mason articulated the association’s position on the matter.

“This all comes down to protecting everybody involved, and in order for that to happen, we needed to suspend the whole family. I don’t take pride in that. I wish we didn’t have to, but we have to protect everybody.”

Legal Viewpoint: Lawsuit Not an Appeal

Dave Hill, the lawyer representing the Rusaks, argues that the lawsuit is not an appeal of a decision, but rather about “an alleged defamatory remark made by the vice-president of the organization.” He believes the internal appeal process does not apply in this case.

“This is not an appeal from a decision, this is not a decision made, it is [about] an alleged defamatory remark made by the vice-president of the organization,” he said.”From my review of the documents it is not something you need to go through this appeal process.”

Impact on the Child: “The System Has Just Failed Him”

Hill highlighted the “devastating” impact on the couple’s nine-year-old son, who was suspended indefinitely. The Rusaks seek an apology and damages. “Their nine-year-old son’s in tears,” Hill stated. “He’s been suspended indefinitely. Can you imagine that? A nine-year-old.”

Uncertain Future: Transfer or relocation?

The Rusaks are considering transferring their son to another hockey association, but lack confidence in a swift resolution. They are even contemplating moving to a different catchment area to allow him to play hockey. “They’ve had a challenging time, and ultimately we want to transfer … to another hockey association,” Hill said.

“I’m at a loss I don’t know what to do,” Russo Rusak said.”I don’t know how to pick up his spirits anymore because it’s been pretty rough for him.”

conclusion: Navigating Disputes in Youth Sports

This situation underscores the complexities and emotional intensity that can arise in youth sports. Disputes between parents and associations can have far-reaching consequences,impacting not only the adults involved but also,and perhaps most considerably,the young athletes. As this case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of clear communication, fair processes, and a focus on the well-being of young players. What are your thoughts on parental involvement in youth sports? share your experiences and insights in the comments below.