WATCH ABOVE: Archery Canada has reportedly taken issue Facebook comments made by a Pan Am/Parapan Am Games athlete. The comments defended a Toronto archer who fought for her spot on the team. Christina Stevens reports.
One of Canada’s top archers is in danger of losing his spot on the Pan Am Games Archery Team, after coming to the defence of a fellow athlete.
Jay Lyon, a professional archer from Winnipeg, took to Facebook to express his concerns over how Kateri Vrakking was being treated by the sport authority.
As Global News reported, Vrakking won an appeal to gain a spot on the Pan Am team after alleging ageism.
READ MORE: Athlete claims age discrimination almost cost her a spot at Pan Am Games
She had come third in the trials, scoring well over double the points of the fifth place woman initially named to the team.
Lyon’s post, which has since been removed, directly criticized Archery Canada.
He described the Vrakking situation as “bull****” and “pure political hogwash,” adding “their leadership is questionable and I wish they would begin to show a little more respect and equality for female shooters.”
Even though he took down the post as soon as Archery Canada contacted him about it, they are going forward with a disciplinary hearing.
“I don’t feel I’ve done anything wrong. I was just expressing some concerns. It’s shocking that they have to attack me in this manner,” said Lyon.
In a telephone interview Archery Canada’s Executive Director said that they are following their discipline policy.
“It’s viewed as contravening the code of conduct, code of ethics and the athlete agreement,” said Scott Ogilvie.
WATCH: A Toronto archer alleges she was passed over for the Pan Am Games due to age discrimination. She fought back to get the place she claims was rightfully hers. Christina Stevens reports.
Archery Canada’s National Coach, who selected the teams, said she knew nothing about the situation.
“You have to ask the people who are taking the action,” said Joan McDonald.
Meanwhile, Lyon’s lawyer said this is a fight about freedom of speech.
“I’m more than happy to email them a copy of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, I think I have the PDF somewhere. It’s like the mind police,” said Mark McMackin.
“I value my teammate’s support and feel he has every right to voice his beliefs on Facebook.” said Vrakking in an emailed statement.
Lyon remains steadfast in his support of Vrakking.
“She’s got terrific results, one of the most decorated female archers in the country,” said Lyon.
Lyon’s results are also impressive, he has represented Canada in two Pan Am Games, an Olympics and earned a silver medal in the Commonwealth Games.
A date for his disciplinary panel hearing has not yet been confirmed, although it is expected to be this week.
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