WHL Announces Suspension of Kevin Constantine, Head Coach Of Wenatchee Wild

September 25, 2023

Calgary, Alta. –  The Western Hockey League announced today, Kevin Constantine, Head Coach of the Wenatchee Wild, has been suspended pending an independent investigation into alleged violations of WHL Regulations and Policies.

Constantine was suspended on Sunday after the WHL’s independent reporting channel received a complaint regarding his conduct. Constantine is not permitted to have any contact with any member of the organization, including players, while the matter is being investigated.

The WHL’s independent Player Advisory Council is conducting an investigation into the allegations. The independent investigation began Sunday when the complaint was received. Upon completion of the investigation, the Player Advisory Council will provide a report to the WHL Commissioner who will then make a determination on any further disciplinary action.

Earlier today, Wenatchee Wild management and the WHL Security Network met with the players to address the situation and offer support. The WHL will take all necessary steps to protect the player experience and ensure strict compliance with WHL Regulations and Policies.

The WHL will issue a further statement when the process has concluded.

Source: Western Hockey League

WHL Skaters Lead Canada To Gold Medal At 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup Saturday

By Andrew Phillip Chernoff | CanucksBanter

August 5, 2023

The Western Hockey League helped Canada capture the gold medal at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup Saturday.

Canada scored with 7 seconds remaining in the 1st sudden death overtime frame to defeat Czechia 3-2 Saturday in Breclav, Czechia.

Cayden Lindstrom, of the Medicine Hat Tigers, put Canada on the scoreboard with a 2nd period marker.

Spokane Chiefs player and Canadian captain Berkly Catton scored to break a 1-1 tie putting Canada up 2-1. His goal leading all tournament scorers with eight goals, one short of equaling the tournament record.

Czechia scored late in the 3rd period to even up the score at 2-2, but neither team could claim victory in regulation play, forcing 3-on-3 overtime to decide the winner.

The WHL was also represented on the Canadian roster by:

  • Jordan Gavin (Tri-City Americans),
  • Ollie Josephson (Red Deer Rebels)
  • Roger McQueen (Brandon Wheat Kings)
  • Ryder Ritchie (Prince Albert Raiders)
  • Carson Wetsch (Calgary Hitmen)
  • Charlie Elick (Brandon Wheat Kings).

In addition to the eight WHL skaters, the Canadian team featured:

  • Kelowna Rockets head coach Kris Mallette, who served as an assistant coach
  • Portland Winterhawks equipment manager Clayton Johns

The director of player personnel for Canada’s entry at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup was vice-president of hockey operations and general manager of the Regina Pats, Alan Millar.

Justin Pogge, former goalie for Calgary Hitmen and Prince George Cougars, served as Canada’s goaltending coach.

The silver medalist Czech roster was represented with WHL talent:

  • Adam Jecho (Edmonton Oil Kings)
  • Samuel Drancak (Red Deer Rebels)
  • Matej Kubiesa (Prince Albert Raiders)
  • Maximilian Curran (Tri-City Americans)
  • Adam Titlbach (Vancouver Giants).

Titlbach, Kubiesa, both scored for Czechia in the gold medal game.

Overall, the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup win is Canada’s 24th gold medal performance in 31 tournaments of the Hlinka Gretzky Cup.

In the other medal game, the United States captured 3rd place and the bronze medal, defeating Finland 5-2 Saturday in Trencin, Slovakia.

Source: Western Hockey League, TSN