Parents Say Placentia Youth Hockey Lets Bullying Happen: Coaches, Refs Permit Dangerous Play for Victory
Unideal scenes!
November 30, 2026
This article was last updated by Anish on November 30, 2026
A local parent is sounding the alarm after watching a youth hockey game in Placentia and says what she saw goes beyond hard play.
In a social-media post, Ralph J. Strickland described his first time watching his grandson’s team and called the experience “the worst” he’d ever had at a kids’ hockey game.
He alleges that players on the Placentia team are taught that “bullying is OK” and that coaches and referees allow aggressive behavior to continue.
“If I had an 11 year old playing against the Placentia team, I would not let him or her play,” Strickland wrote.
He accused coaches and officials of turning a blind eye and said the team is focused on a “win at all costs” mentality, no matter who they hurt.”
He added a direct plea to adults involved in the game: “These are children not adults playing these games. If you don’t know how to coach or play this game then get out.”
Many Parents Raged
Others responded to the post, echoing the sense that the behavior was unnecessary. Shane Morrissey commented, “Definitely no need of it,” with Winifred Strickland agreeing.
One commenter noted, “I guess times have changed,” suggesting the incident left several spectators uncomfortable.
The disputed game ended with Placentia taking the win, according to a separate result post for the North East U13C All Stars: “What a game! What a weekend!! … It was a hard fought battle but Placentia took home the win.”
The game account named Jack McPhee as Hardest Worker, and Reid Hedderson and Jagger White as Players of the Game.
Parents and other observers say the problem isn’t the score but the conduct on the pitch. This account comes from residents and spectators, not league officials.
The post alleges physical, bullying-style play that crosses the line from competitive to harmful, especially for younger players who may be reluctant to speak up for fear of being cut from the team.
The post does not include any statement from the Placentia program, referees, or the organizing league.
Parents and observers calling for change are asking for clearer enforcement of rules, better coaching around sportsmanship, and for referees to intervene when play becomes dangerous.
If you witnessed the game or have concerns, parents suggest documenting incidents, speaking with your child’s coach or league officials, and raising the issue at the next board or parent meeting.
For leagues: reiterate expectations for player safety, require coaching and referee training on age-appropriate physicality, and make reporting channels clear so families can report incidents without fear of retaliation.
The social-media post reflects one family’s frustration after a Saturday game in Placentia, a reminder that youth sports should prioritize safety and character as much as the scoreboard, regardless of the sport or location.
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Anish Koirala has loved sports since he was a kid. He grew up playing basketball and soccer, and that passion stayed with him over the years. Today, Anish works as a writer and editor, sharing his knowledge and love for the game through articles and stories. He uses his playing experience to make his writing clear, thoughtful, and fun to read.
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