Ontario Volleyball Association Suspends Windsor Official Amid Disciplinary Action
The Ontario Volleyball Association (OVA) has issued an interim suspension to a Windsor-area sports official, Mike Trotter, as part of a broader disciplinary measure affecting three provincial officials. The suspension took effect on February 12, 2026, and remains in place until further notice, according to public postings on the OVA's Code of Conduct disciplinary page.
Details of the Suspension
Mike Trotter, a longtime national-level volleyball official, was suspended alongside Bill Stanger, another national official, and Trevor Lall, a regional official. The OVA has not provided any specific reasons or details for the suspensions, leaving the circumstances shrouded in mystery. Multiple attempts by media outlets to contact the association for clarification have gone unanswered, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the case.
Background of Mike Trotter
Mike Trotter has been a certified volleyball referee since 1982, earning recognition for his extensive contributions to the sport. In 2022, he received an OVA Recognition Award, highlighting his career progression from high school-level officiating to roles with the OVA, Ontario University Athletics (OUA), and the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA). His expertise also extended to the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) in the United States.
Since 2013, Trotter has taken on leadership responsibilities as an Assignor in the Windsor area, overseeing officiating assignments for the OVA, OUA, and OCAA. He has been involved in numerous high-profile events, including Ontario Federation of School Athletic Association championships and Ontario Championships. Additionally, he has served as a certified mentor and clinician, training the next generation of referees while working as an area supervisor at Ontario Championships.
Lack of Information and Response
The OVA's decision to suspend Trotter and the other officials has raised questions due to the absence of a public explanation. Efforts to reach Trotter for comment before the print deadline were unsuccessful, as he could not be contacted. This lack of transparency has sparked speculation within the volleyball community about the nature of the disciplinary action and its implications for the sport's governance.
The suspension comes at a time when sports organizations are increasingly under scrutiny for their handling of disciplinary matters, emphasizing the need for clear communication and accountability. As the situation develops, stakeholders await further details from the OVA to understand the full context behind this significant move.
