Michigan Soo official responds to Caswell letter

SooToday.com has received the following note today from Isaac McKechnie, president of the Soo Michigan Hockey Association, responding to yesterday's letter to the editor from Tom Caswell of the Ontario Sault.

We've also included a response from SooToday.com News.

************************* Dave:

As president of Soo Michigan Hockey Association, I would like to comment on your recent article regarding an incident that happened in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan during our Cabin Fever Tournament.

Your article stated that the referee in question grabbed one of the players by the back of the neck and when he was confronted by some of the teams' parents he verbally assaulted them.

As a news professional, you should know there are two sides to every story but the most important issue is to get to the facts.

After speaking to many SMHA tournament officials, parents, referees, and other officials at this game, we are convinced that the referee in question did not physically or verbally assault any players or adults.

Please note we do not tolerate this type of behaviour from any players, parents and officials.

Our association works diligently to teach our all of our participants good sportsmanship and respect for other players, coaches, referees and parents.

Sincerely,

Isaac McKechnie SMHA President

************************* Hello Isaac:

Mr. Caswell is a person of standing in our community, with an exemplary record of voluntarism on issues related to physical and verbal abuse.

In my judgment, he has considerable credibility on this subject and I chose to publish his letter to the editor.

I am now publishing your rebuttal, and am open to hearing from other witnesses to this encounter.

Thank you for your attempts to ensure that the great game of hockey is officiated with a high level of regard for sportsmanship and respect for all involved.

David Helwig News director SooToday.com

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