AlbertaB次元官网网址檚 highest court has ruled that a class-action lawsuit against the Western Hockey League can proceed with the players involved, and that owners and former owners of B.C. teams can be named in the suit as well.

The claim contends that players have been paid less than the minimum wage B次元官网网址� as little as $35 per week for between 40 to 65 hours of work.

It is asking for back wages, overtime and vacation pay.

The Court of Appeal dismissed various appeals calling for changes, saying the judge who granted certification last June was right to exclude players from the leagueB次元官网网址檚 teams in the United States.

B次元官网网址淎bsent a material change of circumstances, or reversal on appeal, the order stands,B次元官网网址� said the ruling released Tuesday in Calgary. B次元官网网址淐ertification does not forbid evolution of the action.B次元官网网址�

The allegations have not been proven in court.

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The WHL, meanwhile, is arguing its players are B次元官网网址渁mateur student-athletesB次元官网网址� and it canB次元官网网址檛 afford to pay them minimum wage on top of benefits they receive, including post-secondary scholarships.

It also alleges several teams would fold if forced to pay minimum wage.

ItB次元官网网址檚 the second such court case against a major junior league in Canada. The Ontario Supreme Court approved an action against the Ontario Hockey League last April.

A similar suit against the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League is also pending.

The three major junior hockey leagues, featuring a combined 60 teams of players between the ages of 16 and 20, fall under the umbrella of the Canadian Hockey League.

The Canadian Press

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