Warning: This story contains distressing details related to sexual assault.
The NHL on Monday reinstated executives Stan Bowman and Al MacIsaac and coach Joel Quenneville, who had been banned from the league in 2021 for their roles in Chicago’s mishandling of a sexual assault scandal.
The three are allowed to seek employment immediately but can’t sign contracts until July 10.
Bowman, MacIsaac and Quenneville were banned after a video coach was accused of assaulting a player in 2010.
Quenneville was coaching the Florida Panthers at the time and resigned, while Bowman did the same as Chicago general manager along with MacIsaac.
In a statement, the NHL said Bowman, MacIsaac and Quenneville have shown remorse for what happened and gained greater awareness for the responsibilities needed in such situations.
The Chicago NHL team’s decision to delay taking action after a sexual assault allegation was made against a video coach has led to the resgination of the team’s general manager, a $2-million fine and questions about what needs to happen to other team officials who didn’t act sooner.
Support is available for anyone who has been sexually assaulted through crisis lines and local support services via this Government of Canada website or the Ending Violence Association of Canada database. If you’re in immediate danger or fear for your safety or that of others around you, please call 911.