One game suspension for Andreas Vinatzer

Andreas Vinatzer (#64) of HC Gherdeina valgardena.it, time 45:16, made contact with an opponent deemed as Slashing IIHF Rule 159. The video evidence was sent to the AHL Player Safety Committee (PSC), which determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 1 – ‘Careless’- insufficient attention or thought to avoid harm or error. Liable to happen as a consequence of, by intending to affect an opponent through a reactionary or accidental motion or the incident is deemed careless causing negligence.

According to the Arbitrator and having considered the video evidence and ruling of the AHL PSC, player Andreas Vinatzer (#64) of HC Gherdeina valgardena.it willl receive supplementary discipline under rule 159 – Slashing vi - A player who lifts his stick between an opponent’s legs for the purpose of making contact with the groin will be assessed either a major and automatic game-misconduct penalty or a match penalty.

In a game played February 27th, Andreas Vinatzer (#64) made contact with an opponent, deemed slashing.
The slashing incident is a specific rule (159vi.) within the context of slashing in the IIHF Rule Book, for the specific reason of the disrespectful act and inability to prepare or protect, as an opposing player. For no apparent reason, Andreas Vinatzer from behind and unsuspecting to the opposing player, raised his stick between the legs of the opposing player in an aggressive manner. The stick action was directed at the groin area of the opposing player.

Effective immediately, Andreas Vinatzer (#64) is suspended for 1 game.

Key references:

• Slashing
• Contact with stick with opponent's groin area
• Considered category 1 - Careless
• Not a repeat offender

From the perspective of DOPS and according to the AHL Penalty Catalog Ref. Nr. 125- Slashing, Andreas Vinatzer (#64) of HC Gherdeina valgardena.it is suspended for 1 game, effective immediately.

Next game Andreas Vinatzer (#64) of HC Gherdeina valgardena.it is allowed to play: 09.03.2019 Red Bull Hockey Juniors vs. HC Gherdeina valgardena.it

DOPS made following video available: