WHL announces disciplinary action on Hurricanes, Broncos after separate standard of conduct investigations

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on November 15, 2025.

sports@medicinehatnews.com@MedicineHatNews

The Western Hockey League announced disciplinary action Friday following two separate investigations following breaches of the WHL’s Standard of Conduct.

The WHL released the findings of two conduct investigations involving Swift Current Broncos head coach Dean DeSilva and Lethbridge Hurricanes general manager Peter Anholt.

In Swift Current, the WHL issued a five-game suspension to the Broncos head coach, also fining the organization $10,000.

The WHL says their investigation found DeSilva, in the process of administering player discipline, breached the WHL Standards of Conduct during two separate on-ice incidents – one occurring during WHL regular season game #128 (Oct. 24) at Prince Albert, and the other during a Broncos practice, October 27.

Swift Current announced Friday they have accepted the resignation of DeSilva and they say assistant coach Regan Darby, who served as interim coach while DeSilva was suspended for the investigation, will continue on an interim basis until further notice.

“Following careful consideration, it was mutually determined that in the best interest of both Dean and the organization, this is the right path forward,” said general manager Chad Leslie in a release. “The Swift Current Broncos are committed to providing a positive environment for all players.”

In Lethbridge, the WHL suspended Anholt from his duties until Nov. 26 and fined the franchise $10,000.

Anholt was found to have breached the standard of conduct through, “use of intimidating behaviour and language during a post-game address to players in the dressing room,” following WHL regular season game #152 (Oct. 29) against Edmonton.

Barclay Parneta, senior advisor for the Lethbridge Hurricanes, will handle Anholt’s responsibilities in the interim.

“My behaviour and language in addressing our team did not meet expectations,” Anholt said in a release. “The Lethbridge Hurricanes have always believed in providing a positive environment for our players. I accept the discipline issued by the WHL and will be committed to a higher standard moving forward.”

The WHL says both situations were brought to the league’s attention through its anonymous 1-800 WHL Respect Line, an option for players, staff and others associated with the WHL to report concerns or incidents that may violate WHL standards. in a confidential manner

In both cases, the WHL says they imposed remedial measures that include supplementary education and support, enhanced monitoring and preventative steps to ensure there is no recurrence of similar conduct.

“Accountability is a cornerstone of the WHL’s culture,” said WHL commissioner Dan Near. “The WHL holds all members – whether players, coaches, or executives – to clear and consistent standards of conduct. When those standards are not met, we will take the necessary steps to uphold integrity and protect the well-being of everyone involved in our game.”

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