One game suspension for Dominic Haberl (EHC)

Dominic Haberl (#92) of EHC Lustenau, time 57:50, made contact with an opponent deemed as Slashing, IIHF Rule 159. The video evidence was sent to the AHL Player SafetyCommittee (PSC), which determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 1 – ‘Careless’ – insufficientattentionor thought to avoid harm or error. Liable to happen as a consequence of, by intending to affectan opponent through a reactionary or accidental motion or the incident is deemed careless causing negligence.

According to the Arbitratorand having considered the video evidence and ruling of the AHL PSC, player Dominic Haberl (#92) of EHC Lustenau, will receive supplementary discipline under rule 159 – Slashing.

On Tuesday, February 25th, (#92) Dominic Haberl of EHC Lustenau, was involved in an incident deemed as Slashing on Red Bull Hockey Juniors d'man Meisaari Valtteri.

As the video shows, deep in the attacking zone of Lustenau, both Dominic Haberl and ValtteriMeisaari engaged in a battle,which initially began with a regard for the puck. At the initial stage of the battle between the 2 players, the game official immediately raised his arm, to signal a penalty against Meisaari.

The reason for supplementary discipline, is after the initial penalty was signaled against Meisaari and with play still active, Haberl showed a lack of discipline and made a unimpeded choice to slash Meisaari in the groin area. Although this is a form of a spear, which the game officials assessed, the IIHF Rule Book identifies the exact type action Haberl did, in a specific rule under slashing. From the perspective of the Player SafetyCommittee, this type of action, especially right in front of a game official and targetingthe groin area of the opposing player is disrespectful to the game, the opposing team and avoidable.

Haberl must show more discipline and refrain from retaliatory type actions, especially targetedand through the use of his stick. Considering the game official had a delayed penalty on Meisaari, there is no probable reason for this type of play.

Effective immediately, Dominic Haberl (#92) of EHC Lustenau is suspended for 1 game.

Key references:

• This is Slashing
• Directed at 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, Dominic Haberl (#92) of EHC Lustenau, is suspended for 1 game, effective immediately.

Next game Dominic Haberl (#92) of EHC Lustenau is allowed to play:
29.02.2020 EHC Lustenau vs. Red Bull Hockey Juniors

DOPS made following Video available: