Swift Current cuts ties with trainer

The Swift Current Broncos have parted ways with veteran head athletic trainer and equipment manager Jamie Leblanc.

“The decision was made following revelations of a recent pattern of demeaning and derogatory comments, threatening behaviour and unprofessional conduct that is inconsistent with the values of the Swift Current Broncos organization and the Western Hockey League,” the community-owned team alleged in a media release that was posted on its website and Twitter account Monday.

“We are a premier franchise strongly committed to the dignity, respect and safety of our players, employees and community partners.”

The team expects to hire a replacement “in the coming days.” The release concluded by saying that the Broncos would “not be commenting further on this matter” because it is a personnel-related issue.

Leblanc, who is from Saint John, N.B., was a trainer in the Ontario Hockey League before joining the Broncos for a four-year stint that began in 2001.

He rejoined the WHL team in 2009.

Leblanc could not be reached for comment Monday.