The head coach of the Swift Current Broncos has stepped down following an inquiry by the Western Hockey League which discovered he had violated the league’s conduct policies. Dean DeSilva resigned from his role as head coach on Friday after receiving a five-game suspension and a $10,000 fine imposed by the WHL. The league stated that DeSilva had violated its conduct standards during two on-ice incidents while dealing with player discipline.
WHL commissioner Dan Near emphasized the importance of accountability within the league’s culture, stating that all members, including players, coaches, and executives, are held to clear and consistent conduct standards. When these standards are not met, the league will take appropriate actions to maintain integrity and safeguard the well-being of all involved in the sport.
DeSilva’s suspension commenced on November 5 and concluded on November 11. However, on November 14, the Broncos announced his resignation. General manager Chad Leslie expressed that after careful consideration, it was mutually agreed that DeSilva’s departure was in the best interest of both parties and the organization’s future. The Broncos reaffirmed their commitment to fostering a positive environment for all players.
This development occurred two years after the Swift Current Broncos and their then-head coach Devan Praught “mutually agreed to part ways” following Praught’s five-game suspension for allegedly breaching WHL conduct standards.
In a separate incident, the WHL also suspended Peter Anholt, the general manager of the Lethbridge Hurricanes, and fined the team $10,000. Anholt was found to have violated conduct standards by using intimidating behavior and language in a post-game speech to players after a defeat against Edmonton in October. He will be eligible to resume his duties on November 26 and expressed remorse for his actions, committing to uphold higher standards in the future.
Both investigations into DeSilva and Anholt were initiated based on reports received through the WHL Respect Line, an anonymous tip line maintained by the league to address such matters.