Release from 03.02.2017

Suspension for Kevin Kapstad - EC-KAC

Kevin Kapstad of EC-KAC got suspended by DOPS for three games, because of Checking from Behind.

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Kevin Kapstad of EC-KAC got suspended by DOPS for three games, because of Checking from Behind.

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According to the Arbitrator and after reviewing video evidence, player Kevin Kapstad (#51) of EC-KAC, time 47:34, made contact with an opponent deemed as Checking from Behind - IIHF Rule 123. As per the EBEL Fundamental Rules V. 5,1 (b), video evidence was sent to PSC(IDOPS) for a final verdict. From the perspective of DOPS, it is clear that Kevin Kapstad (#51) demonstrated a motion on the opposing player that is defined in the IIHF Rule Book as Checking from Behind.
 
On February 2nd in Bolzano, Kevin Kapstad (#51) of EC-KAC delivered a check deemed as checking from behind. The body check was sent to PSC and has been determined to be illegal and raised to disciplinary action. As the video shows, Klagenfurt is attempting to break out of their defensive zone. In the break out, a Klagenfurt player missed the puck which created the play to be considered a broken play with a turnover. In the turnover transition, a Bolzano player chipped the puck ahead. The Bozen player that was potentially going to receive the puck was pushed from behind, not allowing him to gain possession or control of the puck. While the puck is traveling to the Bozen player, Kevin Kapstad, with no regard for the puck, raised his hands to the middle of the back area of the opposing player. With his hands high on the opposing player and using force with his hands, he naturally propelled the opposing player into the boards in an unnatural and defenseless position. The opposing player did sustain an injury. Kevin Kapstad is suspended 2 games for the check from behind and due to being a repeat offender, is suspended 1 additional game. The 3 game suspension is effective immediately.
 
Key references:
- Contact to opposing players back
- Opponent unable to protect himself
- Opposing player is propelled dangerously into boards
- Repeat offender
 
From the perspective of DOPS and according to the EBEL Penalty Catalog Ref Nr. 113 – Checking from Behind, Kevin Kapstad (#51) of EC-KAC is suspended for 3 games, effective immediately and fined €750.00.
 
Next game Kevin Kapstad (#51) of EC-KAC is allowed to play: 19.02.2017 EC-KAC vs. UPC Vienna Capitals
 
DOPS made available following video: