Four game suspension for Massimo Zanet (FAS)

Massimo Zanet (#9) of SHC Fassa Falcons, time 60:00, made contact with an opponent deemed as Roughing, IIHF Rule 158. The video evidence was sent to the AHL Player Safety Committee (PSC), which determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline.

According to the Arbitrator and having considered the video evidence and ruling of the AHL PSC, player (#9) Massimo Zanet of SHC Fassa Falcons, will receive supplementary discipline under rule 158 – Roughing.

On Saturday, February 15th, (#9) Massimo Zanet of SHC Fassa Falcons, was involved in an incident deemed as Roughing. A 5 minute + game misconduct for roughing was assessed by the on ice officials.

As the video shows, the game has concluded and the handshake has begun. It is important to note, that once a game is finished, so is any type of incidents directed at the opposing team. Furthermore, a handshake is done at the conclusion of every game to show sportsmanship. Instead of showing sportsmanship, Massimo Zanet took matters into his own hands and demonstrated unsportsmanlike conduct.

The reason for supplementary discipline is the punch type action during a handshake. While shaking hands, Zanet shook the hand of an opposing player, immediately followed by a punch in the head area. Although the punch didn't appear to be overly forceful, it is not a determining factor. The determining factor and conclusive, is that Zanet did not participate with sportsmanship. Also, directed a unsuspecting punch at the opposing players head. Immediately after the punch, Zanet skated out of the handshake, which means he did not continue with rest of hand shake. This is not considered a reactionary type incident. Instead, it was per-meditated and with a purpose.

Effective immediately, Massimo Zanet (#9) of SHC Fassa Falcons is suspended for 4 games.

Key references:

• This is unsportsmanlike conduct
• Force directed at head area of opposing player
• After conclusion of game
• Not a repeat offender

From the perspective of DOPS and according to the AHL Penalty Catalog Ref. Nr. 116 - Roughing, Massimo
Zanet (#9) of SHC Fassa Falcons, is suspended for 4 games, effective immediately.

Next game Massimo Zanet (#9) of SHC Fassa Falcons is allowed to play:
29.02.2020 EK Die Zeller Eisbären vs. SHC Fassa Falcons