A Shocking Allegation in the Hockey Community
A 38-year-old coach from Grosse Pointe Farms, Benjamin Warda, now faces a felony after prosecutors say he sexually assaulted a woman on his boat at a St. Clair Shores marina on June 13. The incident has rocked local youth hockey circles, where Warda was a well-known figure.
Warda, who also serves as the head coach of the Detroit Bulldogs 9U team and runs Detroit Premier Hockey, was taken into custody and arraigned in 40th District Court in St. Clair Shores on a single count of third-degree criminal sexual conduct, a charge that carries a potential 15-year prison term.
During the hearing, Warda stood mute as a judge set his bail at $50,000 cash or surety and ordered a no-contact order with the alleged victim. The prosecutor’s office praised the victim’s courage and reaffirmed its commitment to prosecuting sexual violence, with Prosecutor Peter Lucido thanking her for coming forward.
The case is being handled by the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office, which has declined to comment on specifics beyond the charge. Warda’s next scheduled court appearances are set for July 14 and July 17, when further details of the investigation are expected to emerge.
Background of the Accused
Before the allegations, Warda had enjoyed a modest career in professional hockey, spending four seasons playing in Germany before returning to the Detroit area to coach youth teams. He previously coached at Grosse Pointe South High School and built a reputation as a dedicated mentor to young players.
In addition to his coaching duties, Warda founded Detroit Premier Hockey, a private organization that offers training and development programs for aspiring athletes. The company’s website lists a range of services, from skill clinics to summer camps.
The allegations have prompted a broader conversation about safeguarding measures within youth sports, with local officials indicating they will review policies to prevent similar incidents in the future.