Rick Westhead Uncovers Troubling Truths in Canadian Hockey Culture

Rick Westhead, an investigative journalist, sheds light on the troubling aspects of Canadian hockey culture in his new book, We Breed Lions; Confronting Canada’s Troubled Hockey Culture, set for release on November 7, 2025. The book examines the commercialism and insular mentality within hockey, particularly highlighted by the recent sexual assault trial involving five players from a junior team who later joined the National Hockey League (NHL). These players were acquitted in July, revealing the complexities and challenges within the sport.

In his research, Westhead draws on numerous testimonies from players, agents, and coaches, countering the perception of a culture of silence, or omertà, often associated with hockey. Former Western Hockey League player Ryan Phillips articulates this sentiment, stating, “Hockey people don’t like outsiders knowing their business.” The book documents a troubling environment where young players, some as young as 16, are expected to navigate societal norms while being away from home and influenced by peers who are only slightly older.

Revealing the Underbelly of Junior Hockey

Westhead’s work paints a stark picture of junior hockey as a realm prioritizing profits and the elite, often at the expense of the broader player community. Agent J.P. Barry is quoted expressing concerns about the lack of accountability in junior teams, stating, “Junior hockey is rogue. These teams are unaccountable to anyone. The whole system needs a kick in the nuts.” Such criticism highlights a systemic issue that has become increasingly difficult to ignore.

The popularity of hockey in Canada complicates discussions of its flaws. For instance, the Four Nations Face-Off final between Canada and the United States attracted an impressive 6.8 million viewers in February 2025. Westhead acknowledges the duality of the sport, recognizing its beauty while also addressing the serious issues that permeate its culture.

Reflecting on his personal experiences, Westhead notes the supportive community he found during challenging times, such as when his son battled cancer. He emphasizes that while hockey can enrich lives, there are systemic issues within elite minor and junior hockey that urgently require reform. “That can be true and it can also be true there are systemic issues within elite minor hockey and junior hockey that need to change,” he states, underscoring the difficulty many have in reconciling these two perspectives.

Challenging the Status Quo

Westhead has faced criticism for his revelations, particularly from figures like six-time Stanley Cup champion Kevin Lowe, who suggested Westhead may have ulterior motives stemming from personal grievances. Lowe questioned whether Westhead’s criticisms were rooted in personal experiences of exclusion from the sport.

Since breaking the news about a lawsuit settlement involving Hockey Canada and allegations of sexual assault against members of the national junior team in May 2022, Westhead has received an influx of messages from individuals recounting toxic experiences in hockey. His book presents a series of alarming anecdotes that reflect deeper cultural issues, including a coach recounting an instance of a parent offering a $25,000 bribe for their child to become team captain and a player recalling a trainer who displayed a chart listing the names of girls with whom players had sexual encounters.

“We are instantly alpha males,” a former Ontario Hockey League player told Westhead. “Outside the team, no one says no to us, and within the team, we learn the rules of the jungle. This is our culture. We breed lions and how do you tell a lion to stop being a lion?” Such statements highlight the need for a cultural shift within the sport.

While Westhead acknowledges the inevitable pushback from those uncomfortable with his findings, he expresses hope that readers will engage with the material thoughtfully. “There are people who are making efforts to affect positive change,” he asserts, emphasizing that the book aims to serve as a catalyst for discussion on the future of hockey in Canada.

The release of We Breed Lions promises to ignite conversations about the need for accountability and reform in hockey culture, challenging players, fans, and organizations to confront uncomfortable truths.