BC Hockey to discuss raising the age for legal bodychecking
By Castlegar Source
Bill Bennett’s Castlegar visit today coincided with a press release issued from his ministry regarding bodychecking in youth hockey. Bennett, B.C. Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, didn’t speak to the release, as he was here to acclaim BC Liberal candidate for the West Kootenay Riding Jim Postnikoff, but the issue is sure to garner some attention from sports fans in the region.
“In light of research highlighting the frequency and severity of injuries as a result of bodychecking … Bennett today encouraged education and awareness about youth bodychecking for parents, coaches, and all involved in youth hockey,” the press release read.
“In June, members will consider a resolution at the BC Hockey Annual General Meeting to raise the age of the introduction of bodychecking in youth rep hockey. BC Hockey is encouraging members to let their associations know if they support raising the age.”
Bill Bennett didn’t take a stance on whether he supports the change.
“I played defense in hockey. Both of my sons played, I coached and I managed hockey teams, but I don’t pretend to be any sort of an expert,” he said.
“I just want parents and coaches to be aware of the medical information available today on the impact of bodychecking at a young age, so that they can make an informed decision.”
Wilf Liefke, president of BC Hockey said this is an apropo time to raise the issue, explaining, “Many local associations are holding their AGMs in the weeks leading up to the provincial AGM, so this is a good opportunity to discuss the issue and make informed decisions.”
But not everyone’s taking a neutral position on the issue.
“Increasingly medical research confirms that the adolescent brain is especially vulnerable to traumatic brain injury,” said Bill Barrable, CEO of the Rick Hansen Institute. “A growing body of research is also telling us that body checking in youth rep leagues is a major risk factor for spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury. It’s very important that minor hockey associations promote awareness among all parents, coaches and players with these facts.”
Quick Facts:
* The BC Hockey Annual General Meeting will be held June 7-9 in Sun Peaks near Kamloops.
* Hockey Canada rules do not allow bodychecking below the age of 11. Each provincial or territorial association sets its own rules for bodychecking for players 11 and above.
* Many health organizations, including the BC Provincial Health Office, Canadian Paediatric Society, Rick Hansen Institute, BC Injury Research and Prevention Unit, Sport Med BC, BC Health and Safety Council, and the Canadian Maternal and Child Health Network recommend that bodychecking should not be allowed in peewee (ages 11-12) level hockey.
