Bolzano's Domenico Alberga gets a one-game suspension

Domenico Alberga (#88) of HCB Alperia Südtirol, time approximately 02:58 was involved in an incident deemed as Checking to the Head or Neck (IIHF Rule 124). The video evidence was sent to the Erste Bank Eishockey Liga Committee (PSC), which determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 1 - 'Careless'.

According to the Arbitrator and having considered the video evidence and ruling of the Erste Bank Eishockey Liga PSC, Domenico Alberga (#88) of HCB Alperia Südtirol, will receive supplementary discipline under rule 124 – Checking to the head or neck.

On September 22nd in Graz, an incident occurred involving Domenico Alberga (#88) deemed as a check to the head. The play immediately before the CTH incident occurred was considered broken, with no 1 in immediate possession or control of the puck. This should be a flag that body checking is not permitted, other than for the purpose of separating the puck from the puck carrier. Battles for the puck is permitted. However, this incident is not deemed a battle for the puck.

With the puck last played off of #88 Domenico Alberga stick, the puck is traveling in the direction of G99 player, #72 Kevin Moderer. Kevin Moderer did make a kicking motion on the puck, but did not have possession or control of the puck. Kevin Moderer was focused down at the direction of the puck, unaware of an impending check, Domenico Alberga, with no regard for the puck, made an illegal check. The check involved planting on the outside (right) foot to change body direction to left, which conclusively proves Domenico Alberga did make a body check with intent. The reason for supplementary discipline, is when delivering the body check, Domenico Alberga elevated his left shoulder up and out, making direct contact to the head of Kevin Moder. His elbow was tucked into contact, but extended out through contact, due to the force intended to deliver the check.

Key references:

• Checking to the head or neck
• Elevation into the hit - make primary contact to head
• Category 1 - Careless
• Not a repeat offender