The Lethbridge Hurricanes announced on Tuesday they have hired former Calgary Flames head coach Bill Peters as the 15th head coach in franchise history.
Peters signed a multi-year contract with the Hurricanes as he replaces Brent Kisio who accepted a position with the Henderson Silver Knights of the American Hockey League.
The Three Hills, AB. product stepped down from the Flames after it became public he had committed an act of anti-black racism involving a former player. The incident occurred when Peters was Head Coach of the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs during the 2009-10 season.
Over the past year, Peters has completed the Anti-Racism Training and Coaching Certification program with guidance through Shades of Humanity Consulting – a national diversity, equity and inclusion agency, helping companies build diverse and inclusive organizations as well as providing leadership coaching, culture development strategies, anti-racism education and equity informed policy design.
On Wednesday, the Western Hockey League (WHL) released a statement with Commissioner Ron Robison saying that Peters has completed the necessary requirements to return to coaching in the WHL.
Robison said, “After a thorough review, speaking with representatives from Shades of Humanity, and receiving a commitment from Bill to continue on his path of anti-racism, self-growth and redemption, the WHL is satisfied Bill is ready to return to coaching in the WHL.”
Peters also commented in the release.
“Over the last several years, I have worked to understand my previous anti-black racist thoughts and actions,” Peters said. “I have learned much through this reformational journey and feel ready to return to coaching. I am in an influential position to positively impact community leaders and contribute to a more inclusive generation in hockey. I will share the tools I have learned with the Lethbridge Hurricanes organization and am fully committed to building a safe environment in our dressing room, community, and in our sport.”
The new Hurricanes head coach will continue to partake in anti-racism coaching, equity training, and further educational initiatives prescribed by Shades of Humanity Consulting.
