WHL’s Wild fire head coach Constantine following investigation of derogatory comments

WENATCHEE, Wash. – Kevin Constantine has been fired as head coach of the Wenatchee Wild.

Constantine’s dismissal comes after an independent investigation into a violation of Western Hockey League’s standard of conduct policies.

Associate head coach Chris Clark and assistant coach Andrew Sarauer will maintain coaching duties for the team until a new head coach is named.

The investigation came after Constantine allegedly made “derogatory comments of a discriminatory nature.”

The WHL said Constantine will not be eligible to apply to the commissioner for reinstatement until 2025 at the earliest.

Constantine was previously suspended Sept. 24 pending the independent investigation.

The 64-year-old Constantine coached in the NHL from 1993-2002 with the San Jose Sharks, Pittsburgh Penguins and New Jersey Devils. He coached in Austria last season, directing Szekeshfehervar Alba Volan.

The Wild are in their first season in Wenatchee, Wash., after moving from Winnipeg.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 5, 2023.