Collin Birkas won’t be behind the Nanaimo Clippers bench when the Coastal Division Chiefs begin a three-game road trip in Penticton on Friday night.
Pirkas, who also serves as the Clippers’ general manager, was suspended indefinitely following complaints filed under Hockey Canada’s complaints and disciplinary policy.
The team announced on social media on Friday afternoon that Birkas has been “temporarily suspended” pending the outcome of a third-party investigation.
“The Clippers organization values the importance of following the process outlined by officials,” the team said on its Twitter account.
“It also prioritizes player safety and player experience.
“While Mr. Birkas denies the allegations against him, the Clippers are cooperating with the investigation and working diligently to help resolve this matter expeditiously.”
A statement from the Nanaimo Clippers: pic.twitter.com/ZPgz2jqKtJ
— X – Nanaimo Clippers (@ClippersHockey) March 17, 2023
Associate coach Bob Beatty and assistant coach Tyler Cove will handle interim coaching and general manager responsibilities.
The Clippers’ road trip includes games in Penticton on Friday, West Kelowna on Saturday and Coquitlam on Sunday.
