Hockey Canada has announced its entire board of directors and its CEO will step aside amid widespread criticism for its handling of an alleged group sexual assault involving members of the 2018 men's national junior team. • In a media statement, the sports organization confirms that, effective immediately, chief executive officer Scott Smith is leaving. • The statement says that an interim management committee will be put in place until a newly constituted board appoints a new CEO to lead the organization. • A virtual election is scheduled for Dec. 17. Hockey Canada's statement says the current board will not seek re-election. • In recent days, major sponsors — including Bauer, Nike, Tim Hortons, Canadian Tire, Esso and Telus — have cut ties with Hockey Canada permanently or have withdrawn funding for men's hockey this season. • Tap our link in bio to read more. • • • (Reporting: CBC News; Photo: Jeff McIntosh/The Canadian Press) #HockeyCanada #Hockey #Sports #Canada #CBC #CBCNews