Professional hockey player and New Jersey Devils defenseman, Cal Foote, stands charged with sexual assault, in a case that has sent tremors through the sporting world. The news emerged as a statement from Foote’s lawyer, Julianna Greenspan, confirmed the accusation and declared Foote’s intention to assert his innocence.
Greenspan, representing Foote, underscored the critical legal tenets of the presumption of innocence and the entitlement to a fair trial, cornerstone principles of justice in Canada. She stated, Foote is determined to defend himself to clear his name.
The case has sparked a broader conversation within the sporting community. Foote along with three other NHL players face similar accusations related to an alleged assault by several members of Canada’s 2018 world junior team. The legal teams representing these players have collectively declared their innocence and pledged to vigorously defend the case.
The NHL and the players’ respective teams, informed about the situation, are awaiting the outcomes of the investigations. The New Jersey Devils, Foote’s current team, have refrained from making any additional comments at this time. The London Police Service is expected to hold a press conference to update the public on the case.
Amidst these unfolding events, the experiences of former Vancouver Canucks goaltender Corey Hirsch have come to light, illuminating the challenges faced by young players in the hockey league. Hirsch has highlighted the influence of veteran players and the discussions that transpire during long bus rides to games, often out of sight of coaches and management.
