Everett Silvertips
Following up a TSN article and the report of ongoing investigations, the WHL released the following statement and article on its website on Saturday evening.
Calgary, Alta. – Western Hockey League Commissioner Ron Robison announced today that a series of investigations have found absolutely no evidence to support allegations against Everett Silvertips Head Coach and General Manager Dennis Williams.
The article went on to say:
“This week, the WHL completed a series of investigations in response to allegations made by former Everett Silvertips equipment manager Damon Pugerude. Conducted by Kevan Stuart, WHL Head of Security, these investigations found no evidence to support any of the allegations made by Mr. Pugerude. The investigations also concluded that Mr. Williams did not violate WHL conduct policies.” …
“Based on the evidence and information currently available, the US Centre for SafeSport has closed the matter after reaching a similar conclusion to the investigations conducted by the WHL.”
Preparation for the 2023-’24 WHL season begins soon with Everett opening at home at Angel of the Winds Arena on September 23rd against the Victoria Royals. The Silvertips play their first four games of the season on home ice, including one against Washington state’s newest entry into the league, the Wenatchee Wild.
The Wild, the franchise formerly known as the Winnipeg Ice, was moved following the sale of the team.
The Silvertips first road game is October 6th in Portland against the Winterhawks.
Everett finished last season 33-32-2-and-1 and in the 6th playoff position in the WHL’s western conference. They lost their opening round series to Portland in five games, the series clincher being a 3-2 overtime game on April 8th.
Williams coached Team Canada to a Gold Medal at the 2023 World Junior Championship this past January in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The Canadians beat Czechia 3-2 in overtime to claim the tournament championship.
