Lethbridge, Alberta – [September 27, 2024] – In a proactive response to a recent incident of cyberbullying involving local youth athletes, Lethbridge hockey leagues have announced they will be removing names and professional codes from hockey equipment. This decision comes after disturbing reports emerged of stalkers using identifiable information on hockey sticks to track and harass young players.

The incident highlighted the vulnerabilities young athletes face in the digital age, raising pressing concerns among parents, coaches, and community leaders about the implications of cyberbullying. Local leagues have recognized the need to take immediate action to protect the safety and privacy of their players, thus prompting this significant policy change.

Many hockey equipments with youth names and identifications that are not only used in local leagues are sold across Canada and the United States as professional equipments. This widespread availability makes it easy for individuals with malicious intent to obtain and use this information to track and harass young athletes. The ease of online marketplaces and social media platforms further exacerbates the issue, allowing stalkers to share and spread sensitive information quickly and anonymously.

While the Lethbridge leagues have taken a firm stance, there has been no official comment from national hockey organizations regarding this matter at this time. However, the trend is gaining momentum, as more junior and professional leagues across Canada are expressing support for the removal of identifiable information from equipment. This shift aims to safeguard youth players who often travel and compete across cities and provinces, thereby reducing the risk of harassment and unwanted attention.

"We understand that the safety and well-being of our youth should always come first," stated by a representative parents group from one of the local hockey leagues. "By removing names and codes from sticks and other gear, we hope to create a safer environment for our players and set a standard for leagues nationwide."

As organizations continue to assess the impact of cyberbullying on the sports community, the collaborative efforts among local and national leagues highlight a growing recognition of the importance of privacy protection for young athletes.

Concerns surrounding the mental health and safety of youth athletes have gained visibility in recent years, with this latest development reaffirming the commitment of hockey leagues to foster a supportive and secure environment.

Hockey Canada has yet to make a comment on this matter.