Sylvan Lake volunteer football coach removed over social media post

“But there is an ideology being used to attract or to recruit vulnerable kids into this ideology, which leads them down a path of puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and gender surgeries. I just don’t believe that children should be given puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, or have gender surgery.”

In a statement from Chinook’s Edge Superintendent Ryan Sawula, he said they’re aware of comments made on social media and they’re conducting a full investigation into the situation.

Sawula said they asked the volunteer coach to step away from his responsibilities and that they wouldn’t be commenting further about the specifics of the investigation because they do not comment about personal matters publicly.

The superintendent acknowledged, there are multiple perspectives on complex issues in their communities. However, as per the Alberta Education Act Section 33.d, they have a legal responsibility to provide all students with, “a welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environment that respects diversity and fosters a sense of belonging.”

“We take this responsibility seriously, and as such, we hold staff members and volunteers to a high standard of conduct,” Sawula said.

The Lakers football program is also a part of the Sylvan Lake Minor Football Association, who’ve chosen not to comment until the investigation is complete and a final decision has been made.

Johannesson alleges the principal of the school called him last Sunday evening to tell him that because of the video, he would no longer be welcome to the school to coach.

This led Johannesson to publish a post on Facebook alerting the public he had been removed of his position and expressed his disappointment.

He explained since then, he’s received an outpouring of support from across the country.

“I think it’s very important to understand that we don’t have to agree with me. You can think that giving kids drugs, cutting off their body parts, and giving them hormones is acceptable. I disagree with that and I just want to be able to say that.”

For now, he’s waiting for the results of an appeal meeting with the superintendent and explained he’s been in touch with other levels of government.

Johannesson hopes to get to a point where they can resolve the situation as football season officially began last week.

When asked if he regretted making the Tik Tok video, he said he makes videos to help protect children against something he believes is harmful.

“I will continue to stand up for kids, and one day, if I’m proven wrong that these kids do need surgery, do need drugs, and cross-sex hormones, if they can show me the studies that doing that to children is good, I’ll come around,” Johannesson said. “I haven’t seen that evidence yet, so I’ll continue to do what I’ve always loved to do and what I feel like I need to do, which is to protect children against harm brought on to them by an ideology that’s created by adults.”

Johannesson sent rdnewsNOW multiple emails of support from players, former players, and parents that were also sent to the school division.

One such letter from a player of his, said the coach’s dismissal would be a mistake.

“He’s the one coach that many of us feel comfortable going to, someone we can trust and talk to openly,” the email stated. “What makes Coach Teej so special, is he shares guidance without judgement, letting us make our own choices while still helping us grow both as athletes and as people. He genuinely cares about all of us, on and off the field. He’s a part of our team’s family.”

Another letter of support from a former player said what was being done to the football team was devastating.

“Teej has made a large impact in my life and has made me a better football player and man. He is a phenomenal coach who cares greatly about the team’s success, and the well being of each and every player,” stated the email. “Without Teej, our chances of being successful are slim. I am requesting that you reconsider your decision and understand the impact that you are making on our team and our lives.”

Queer Neighbours Society of Red Deer responds

Chairperson for the Queer Neighbours Society of Red Deer, Stephanie Hodgkins, admits she did not watch the video but explained, she respects that everybody can have their own views.

However, the organization says it does not condone what was said.

“Spreading any kinds of anti-trans view on the internet can be extremely harmful but we wish him well in finding a new role. Hopefully, he learns from the experience,” she said.

Hodgkins explained that any time someone paints the trans community in a negative light, that creates a ripple effect of misinformation of what’s actually happening.

“Comments made on videos like that are so harmful, even if people in the community don’t see it, other people of influence might. It’s bridged that negativity to our community which effects our safety and our wellbeing,” she added.

“I encourage people to actually look at the facts, do their own research and due diligence before commenting on something they may not understand.”

by Ian Gustafson

Sylvan Lake volunteer football coach removed over social media post

Queer Neighbours Society of Red Deer responds

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