marty hastings
Kamloops This Week
A heated discussion between peewee lacrosse Kamloops Rattlers assistant coach Doug Clark and a parent is alleged to have become physical outside Nor-Val Sports Centre in Armstrong on June 15.
“It started on the edge of the players’ box and it did go outside,” said Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP spokesperson Gord Molendyk.
“There is some indication that it went from a heated discussion to perhaps punches being thrown.
“The police became involved and my understanding is that they are looking at charges being laid against a parent.”
Clark, also head coach of the junior B Kamloops Venom of the Thompson Okanagan Lacrosse League, and the parent — whose child plays for the peewee Rattlers, which has players ages 11 and 12 — were interviewed by police in Armstrong on Friday.
“The parent was released and is expected to appear in court,” Molendyk said.
The B.C. Lacrosse Association (BCLA) has suspended Clark pending an internal investigation.
“B.C. Lacrosse’s coaching association is responsible for the investigation,” said BCLA vice-president Ron McQuarrie, noting a three-person panel was to conduct a hearing Wednesday or Thursday.
McQuarrie said Clark’s actions were out of character.
“I’ve known Doug for many years,” McQuarrie said.
“Doug is a tremendous person. It’s unfortunate Doug was involved in this. This was a disturbing incident.”
A witness told The Morning Star a parent became upset after a child was hit in the throat with a stick.
It is believed the parent wanted Clark to question the referee as to why a penalty was not called.
The parent’s name has not been released by RCMP, as charges have not yet been laid.
