REPORT: NHLPA Not Happy With Hockey Canada New Policies

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Dylan Robillard
May 16, 2023 (9:38)

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The NHLPA have told player agents they have "serious concerns" with Hockey Canada's new player screening policy ahead of the 2023
HIHF World Championships.

The new screening process includes a four-page form, authorization of a criminal records and sporting discipline check, and a question that reads: "Is there anything we should know about you that could negatively impact Hockey Canada's reputation as it relates to your team selection?"

Hockey Canada disputes the NHLPA's notion that the new screenings are "too broad" and that it "creates a safe and welcoming environment across our national teams."

In the memo, obtained by The Athletic, the NHLPA general counsel told agents late last month about their serious concerns with Hockey Canada's new approach.
Players being considered for Hockey
Canada's roster at the 2023 World Hockey Championship were required to complete certain forms and authorize a criminal records check and social media screening. The memo reads, in part:
"The screening process is extremely broad and includes the required disclosure of anything that could negatively impact Hockey Canada's reputation. We asked Hockey Canada to clarify how players were to respond to this question, but they were unable to provide any useful guidance."
The broadness of that question is an issue for the NHLPA. The memo also states: "Given the breadth of the screening and the lack of guidance, we believe it will be impossible for players to fully understand their obligations. This is particularly troubling given that Hockey Canada may impose sanctions for a player's failure to disclose the requested Information.»

These guidelines are mainly put in for the real safety of everyone, as well, Team Canada, won't be left embarrassed. As in past years, players from Team Canada and others in IIHF, have been involved in some bad legal issues.