Suspension-SAIT Hockey-Puddifant |
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Commissioner's Rulings
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2015-16 SeasonDecember 17, 2015Further to the attached ruling, I have received medical confirmation that Mr. Puddifant has now been medically cleared to play. As such, his three (3) game suspension shall be served as follows:
Regards, Facts: Immediately following a November 21, 2015 injured SAIT Men’s Hockey player Michael Puddifant became involved in an altercation with game officials in the tunnel where the officials were exiting the ice surface. According to officials, Mr. Puddifant was yelling and swearing at them and unsuccessfully attempted to initiate physical contact. No discipline was assessed against Mr. Puddifant as he was not listed on the game sheet. However, an Officials Report was completed, detailing Mr. Puddifant’s actions. Ruling: Article I Section 3 Rule 4.1.4 calls for student-athletes to conform to a higher standard of behavior by exhibiting respect for referee’ and officials’ judgments and decisions. In addition, Rule 4.2.2 requires student-athletes to present the best of themselves at all times. These rules, both of which were clearly violated, apply to Mr. Puddifant whether he is in uniform or not. Had Mr. Puddifant been involved in the game, his actions would most closely align with a gross misconduct or a match penalty, both of which have a three (3) game suspension as a starting point. Based on the above, Mr. Puddifant is hereby suspended for three (3) games. The timing of Mr. Puddifant’s suspension is complicated by the fact that he is currently injured. Therefore, in order to ensure that the suspension has a meaningful impact, Mr. Puddifant will be required to present the ACAC Office with a written medical clearance from a qualified medical doctor, not associated with SAIT athletics, indicating the date that Mr. Puddifant has been physically been cleared to return to ACAC play, at which time the specific dates of his suspension will be determined. Sincerely, |