Todd Tisdale shares his story of the alleged abuse he experienced as a young hockey player in 1986. In Part Three of this series Todd discusses the civil lawsuit he's initiated. (Photo Courtesy Derek Brade)

By Teagan Rasche

'An apology would be nice'

Part Three: Hatter shares story of alleged hockey abuse hoping to help other victims

Apr 14, 2022 | 2:23 PM

WARNING: THIS STORY CONTAINS GRAPHIC CONTENT

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Todd Tisdale’s experience at Athol Murray College of Notre Dame in Wilcox, Sask. is now before Court of Queen’s Bench in Saskatchewan.

After he failed to obtain an apology, Todd decided in 2018 to launch a civil lawsuit against the school.

The school was originally listed as the only defendant but recently Todd added another student, who’s an alleged abuser, to the list.

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CHAT News reached out to Notre Dame to hear their side of the story but the school declined to comment citing the pending lawsuit.

According to the statement of defense filed on Dec. 19, 2018:

“Notre Dame puts the Plaintiff to the strict proof that he suffered the injuries alleged and in the manner alleged in the Statement of Claim.

Notre Dame denies that it is vicariously liable for the intentional torts committed by students upon other students

Notre Dame denies that it is vicariously liable for intentional torts committed by students who either do not hold a position of authority within the College (such as prefects or dorm house leaders) or who, while holding such position of authority are acting outside the express or implied scope of such authority.”

READ MORE: Part One: Hatter shares story of alleged hockey abuse hoping to help other victims and Part Two: Hatter shares story of alleged hockey abuse hoping to help other victims

CHAT News also reached out to RCMP in Saskatchewan who said there are no records of hazing or abuse involving Notre Dame between 1985 and 1987. There is a policy that governs how long records are retained and in a statement. RCMP say “It is possible that a complaint was received but records have been destroyed, as per this policy.”

The lawsuit was scheduled to begin being heard in February but has been postponed until the fall.

“An apology would be nice, I want to show other people that stuff can be done if you are persistent enough and believe in your story enough,” Todd said. “The big bad bully can be taken down.”

Todd says his experience at Notre Dame has had a major impact on his life and tainted his feelings toward hockey for decades but since coming forward about his alleged abuse, his feelings have changed and he’s ready to get back on the ice.

If you or someone you know needs help, the Association of Alberta Sexual Assault Services has a toll-free talk, text and chat services at 1-866-403-8000.