Outrage over Cal Foote signing: team says ‘Not our decision’

The Chicago Wolves have officially addressed fan backlash following the signing of defenseman Cal Foote, clarifying the organization’s role in the controversial move.

Wendell Young, the Wolves’ governor and vice chairman, stated to Margaret Fleming:

“One-hundred percent not a Chicago Wolves signing…The signing is out of our control, but now it’s our duty as an organization, to our fans, to listen to the perspective and understand.”

Foote’s addition to Carolina’s AHL affiliate comes months after Hurricanes fans loudly opposed the team reportedly pursuing other players involved in the high-profile 2018 Hockey Canada trial. Foote, along with Carter Hart, Dillon Dubé, and Alex Formenton, faced sexual assault charges, with Michael McLeod facing an additional count, but were all found not guilty by a Canadian court in July 2025.

Following the acquittals, the Hurricanes reportedly considered McLeod and Hart, prompting fans to threaten season-ticket cancellations and circulate an online petition gathering many signatures urging the team not to sign the players. Carolina ultimately moved on: Hart joined the Vegas Golden Knights, while McLeod signed in the Kontinental Hockey League.

Foote’s signing with the Wolves was comparatively quiet, yet the move has still provoked some online backlash.

Selected 14th overall in the 2017 NHL Draft, Foote has previously played for the Tampa Bay Lightning, as well as the Predators and Devils. He and the other four Hockey Canada trial players left the league in January 2024, shortly before the charges were announced.

Wolves management’s statement emphasizes that while the signing was outside of their control, they recognize the importance of hearing fans’ concerns. The organization appears committed to balancing its relationship with supporters while navigating a sensitive and complex situation in the aftermath of a legal case that continues to resonate with hockey fans.