Video Review: SAIT Hockey-Crisfield |
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Commissioner's Rulings
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2017-18 SeasonFebruary 21, 2018
Facts:On February 17, 2018, SAIT Men’s Hockey player Geoff Crisfield (#25) was assessed a minor penalty and ten minute misconduct for head contact with NAIT’s Ty Stanton (#3). NAIT has requested a video review of the incident as per the ACAC Operating Code. Ruling:Article I Section 13 Rule 8.5.5 of the Operating Code reads as follows: 8.5.5. Any incident where injury was done to the player’s head can be requested for review by that institution for further suspension without fee regardless of whether it was called or not. If not called, the institution must provide a doctor’s note with diagnosis of injury. That institution is required to provide the league with video evidence of the incident. In support of its request, NAIT has provided a medical note dated February 20, 2018, confirming that Mr. Stanton has been diagnosed with a concussion arising from this incident and has not yet been cleared to return to hockey at this time. NAIT has also provided a video clip of the incident in question (attached to this ruling), which provides a clear view of the incident. I am usually reluctant to overturn calls made by ACAC officials. However, in this case, having reviewed the video clip, it is my opinion that the appropriate call on the ice should have been a major and game misconduct for head contact. While Mr. Stanton has an obligation to be aware of his surroundings, Mr. Crisfield had an even greater obligation not to make head contact with Mr. Stanton by way of a dangerous blindside hit. Therefore, pursuant to the ACAC Operating Code, I hereby substitute the referee’s call on the ice with a major and game misconduct for head contact. The appropriate penalty for this offence is an automatic one (1) game suspension, which Mr. Crisfield is to serve on February 23, 2018 vs. PC. Sincerely, Bill Hendsbee
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