The Hockey Canada Board of Directors announced last night that the director and interim chair of the organization resigned. Her statement can be viewed below.

Andrea Skinner, appearing before the House of Commons heritage committee on October 4, said she didn’t believe senior leadership should be replaced.

“Will the lights stay on at the rink? I don’t know. We can’t predict that. To me, it’s not a risk worth taking.”

The hockey organization has been under fire since it was revealed in May that it had settled a multi-million-dollar lawsuit launched by a woman who alleged that eight hockey players — including members of the 2018 world junior team — sexually assaulted her at a hotel in London, Ontario.  Hockey Canada used a fund, made partially of player registration fees, to pay the settlement.

The Hockey Canada Board of Directors said in a written statement, “As a Board, we wish Andrea well and would like to thank her for her service to Hockey Canada. We will continue to meet over the weekend to discuss other changes and reforms to the organization.”

Statement from Andrea Skinner:

I joined the Hockey Canada Board of Directors in November 2020 as a volunteer. I had experience playing, coaching and officiating at the grassroots and elite levels and a desire to serve. It was my strong commitment to make the game more safe, accessible, inclusive and welcoming.

I am grateful to the Members of Hockey Canada for electing me to the Board of Directors and providing me with the opportunity to make positive change for our game and for Hockey Canada. I stepped into the position of Interim Chair of the Board two months ago for the same reason.

Upon reflection, it is clear to me from recent events that it no longer makes sense for me to continue to volunteer my time as Interim Chair or as a Director of the organization.

Despite recent challenges, I am gratified to have had the opportunity to cross paths with countless volunteers, dedicated people within the organization, sponsors and other stakeholders.

I sincerely appreciate the support I have received from many Canadians, particularly women, who also seek to positively influence the game and sport.”