Suspension: NAIT Soccer - Mike McCormick |
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Commissioner's Rulings
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2010-11 SeasonSeptember 23, 2010 Facts: During a September 19, 2010 game against GPRC, NAIT men’s soccer player Mike McCormick (#4) received a red card for foul and abusive language directed at an official. According to the referee, after receiving a yellow card for a foul on an opponent, he looked at the referee and said “fuck you.” He was shown a red card and left the field without further incident. The NAIT coach and player strongly dispute the referee’s version of events. They admit that Mr. McCormick swore but insist that the language was not directed at the referee. I have also received submissions from the GPRC coach. According to the GPRC player closest to the incident, Mr. McCormick did not swear at the referee. The GPRC player is clear that Mr. McCormick swore at himself, out of frustration. Ruling: Article I Section 13 Rule 9.3.3.2 of the ACAC Operating Code calls for an automatic four (4) game suspension for “foul or abusive language…directed at an official.” Clearly, Mr. McCormick’s language was both foul and abusive. The issue is whether it was directed at the referee. I do not question the referee’s integrity in this matter. However, it is possible that he was mistaken in interpreting Mr. McCormick’s comments as being directed at him. The game was played on a cold, rainy day, which may have contributed to this mistake. Based on the evidence from the GPRC player, I am prepared to give Mr. McCormick the benefit of the doubt. Rule 9.3.2.3 calls for a two (2) game suspension for “foul or abusive language directed at anyone other than an official.” I find that Mr. McCormick has breached this rule and is hereby suspended for two (2) games, to be served as follows:
Sincerely, Bill Hendsbee |