Hockey Newfoundland and Labrador (Hockey NL) is deeply disappointed and concerned by the false and damaging information being circulated about Natalie Keeping, Head Coach of the U13 AAA Eastern Knights.
Natalie is currently taking time away from the team to focus on her personal health and well-being. Hockey NL wishes to make it absolutely clear that the allegations circulating about Natalie, including claims of criminal charges or pending civil proceedings, are false and without foundation. Natalie has met all screening requirements established under Hockey NL’s Screening Policy and has been cleared to coach within our programs.
It is particularly troubling that these allegations appear to have originated from a fabricated, AI-generated story that has subsequently been shared through social media and conversations within our hockey community. The use of technology to create and circulate false information intended to damage an individual’s reputation is unacceptable. Equally concerning is the willingness of others to repeat these allegations without considering their accuracy or the harm they may cause.
Hockey NL strongly condemns these actions. No individual should have their character, integrity, or reputation called into question on the basis of fabricated information.
Hockey NL stands firmly behind Natalie. We are working with the appropriate authorities and an internal investigator to determine the source of the fabricated material and identify those responsible for its creation and distribution.
We ask everyone within our hockey community to respect Natalie’s privacy, refrain from sharing or repeating these false allegations, and consider the very real impact that such actions can have on an individual and their family.
Anyone with information that may assist in identifying the person or persons responsible is encouraged to contact Hockey NL at 709-489-5512, extension 5.
Natalie deserves the same respect, fairness, and support that we expect every member of our hockey community to extend to one another.
Thank You