CHILLIWACK — The British Columbia Hockey League is accusing Hockey Canada of bullying and restricting opportunities for minor hockey players in British Columbia’s Lower Mainland. The league’s executive committee sent a letter to federal Sports Minister Carla Qualtrough alleging that Hockey Canada has launched a systematic and vengeful campaign to harm the BCHL.

Earlier this year, the BCHL ended its association with Hockey Canada, citing the latter’s refusal to engage in discussions over rules perceived to hinder the development of amateur hockey players. As a result of this decision, the league alleges that Hockey Canada took deliberate steps to interfere with the operations of the BCHL.

The Pacific Coast Amateur Hockey Association (PCAHA), responsible for governing minor hockey in the Lower Mainland, purports to cite BC Hockey’s policy in a letter to local minor hockey associations. The citation warns of potential sanctions if associations align themselves with the BCHL through advertising, promotions or volunteer activities. The PCAHA falls under the governance of BC Hockey and, in turn, Hockey Canada.

In Chilliwack, the impact affected Timbit minor hockey games between periods of Chilliwack Chiefs games. The Chiefs can no longer use minor hockey teams for these games. In many places, the seventh player program is no longer supported by minor hockey associations. The program allows young players to enjoy the thrill of being on the ice with BCHL teams during the national anthem.