As of Nov. 6, 2023, another former player of the Chicago Blackhawks, is suing former coach Brad Aldrich. The player is accusing former coach Brad Aldrich of sexually assaulting him. Furthermore, he is saying that the hockey team neglected his complaints. This lawsuit comes in the wake of similar allegations made by fellow former player, Kyle Beach, prompting a deeper investigation into the Blackhawks organization.
The Lawsuit and Allegations
The unnamed former player, referred to as John Doe, claims that Aldrich sexually assaulted him around the time of the 2010 Stanley Cup Finals. According to court documents, the player alleges that the Blackhawks prioritized their championship aspirations over the welfare of their players. Additionally, the lawsuit states that the organization provided cover for Aldrich. Allegedly, the former coach was grooming, harassing, threatening, and assaulting John Doe. Furthermore, this lawsuit asserts that Aldrich made explicit sexual advances and coerced the player into watching pornographic content. For example, in one instance Aldrich had texted John Doe, saying that he could give better [oral sex] “better than any woman could.”
Inspiration from a Fellow Player and Blackhawks Comments
The decision to file the lawsuit is reportedly inspired by fellow former player, Kyle Beach. Who also sued the Blackhawks in 2021 for mishandling his sexual assault allegations against Brad Aldrich. Attorneys for John Doe stated that Beach’s courage in coming forward gave their client the strength to speak out about his own experience. Beach’s allegations came to light after years of silence. His willingness to share his story helped shed light on the broader issue of sexual misconduct within the Blackhawks organization.
The Blackhawks themselves have not commented on specific details in regard to the lawsuit. However, the team released a statement emphasizing their commitment to taking workplace misconduct allegations seriously. They mentioned that they commissioned an independent investigation into the events that occurred in 2010 and have implemented significant changes within the organization to ensure the safety and well-being of their players and employees.
Repercussions of Allegations
The revelations surrounding Brad Aldrich’s actions, and the Blackhawks’ alleged mishandling of the situation, have had significant consequences both within and outside the organization. The NHL fined the team $2 million for their inadequate internal procedures and delayed response to the assault allegations. Meanwhile, Kyle Beach reached a confidential settlement with the team in 2021. John Doe’s legal team has indicated that they are seeking damages well beyond $300,000.`
Written By Saniya Fields
Sources
CNN – A second former player sues Chicago Blackhawks accusing former coach of sexual assault by Jennifer Henderson and Elizabeth Wolfe
Chicago Tribune – Another lawsuit against Chicago Blackhawks: Ex-player, ‘Black Aces’ teammate of Kyle Beach alleges 2010 sexual assault by former video coach by Phil Thompson
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