A former player for the Chicago Blackhawks organization has filed a lawsuit claiming that the team’s former video coach sexually assaulted him during the 2009-10 season. The lawsuit also alleges that the Blackhawks did not adequately respond to the complaint because they did not want any disruption during their Stanley Cup run.
The lawsuit, filed by the law firm of Romanucci & Blandin on behalf of the plaintiff listed as John Doe, accuses the former video coach Brad Aldrich of sexually assaulting the player. It claims that the Blackhawks showed utter indifference and/or conscious disregard for the safety of its employees, including John Doe.
The plaintiff was part of the Blackhawks’ Black Aces squad, which consisted of minor-league players who traveled with the NHL team during the playoffs to fill in for potential injuries. One of his teammates in the Black Aces squad, Kyle Beach, reached a settlement with the Blackhawks in December 2021 after alleging that he was also sexually assaulted by Aldrich.
The latest lawsuit raises similar allegations against Aldrich and highlights the Blackhawks’ alleged failure to prioritize the safety and well-being of their employees. The team responded to the lawsuit by stating that they take allegations of workplace misconduct seriously and have implemented numerous improvements within their organization.
The Blackhawks confirmed that two years ago, they initiated an independent investigation into the events of 2010. As a result of the investigation, they claim to have made significant changes, including a complete rebuild of their leadership team, the implementation of a mental health program, and the introduction of new reporting mechanisms and training for all employees.
The plaintiff’s attorney, Antonio Romanucci, emphasized that the aim of the lawsuit is to ensure accountability among sports teams. He stated that it is crucial for the Blackhawks to be held responsible for the changes they have promised to prevent such sexual abuses from occurring in the future. Romanucci also wants to send a message to all teams that putting winning above the mental and physical health of players is unacceptable.
According to the lawsuit, Aldrich allegedly invited Black Aces players to his home under the pretense of discussing hockey strategy but then proceeded to show them pornographic movies. Aldrich is accused of sexual advances towards John Doe, including offering to perform oral sex and pushing his genitals against the victim’s back and buttocks.
The lawsuit further alleges that Aldrich used threats to dissuade the player from reporting the incidents. It is important to note that Aldrich had previously pleaded guilty in 2013 to fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a 16-year-old high school hockey player in Michigan.
As the lawsuit progresses, the focus remains on holding the Blackhawks accountable and ensuring that teams across the country understand that such behavior is not tolerated. The allegations are a stark reminder that the well-being and safety of players should always be a top priority in the world of sports.
