Suspension for Steven Strong

According to the Arbitrator and after reviewing the video evidence, the player Steven Strong (#24) of EC-KAC, on Sunday March 26th 2017 in semifinal number 6 against EC Red Bull Salzburg time 09:34, made contact with an opponent deemed as Kneeing IIHF Rule 153. 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 Steven Strong (#24) demonstrated a motion on the opposing player that is defined in the IIHF Rule Book as Kneeing.

 

On March 26th 2017 in Klagenfurt, a situation occurred involving KAC player #24, Steven Strong. The incident was sent to the EBEL Player Safety Committee (PSC), who determined that supplementary discipline is required. As the video shows, directly after receiving a check,  Strong skated in a direct path towards an opposing player. The consideration for a possible retribution play, after being checked, wasconsidered by the EBEL Department of Player Safety (DOPS). Considering the direct path at the oncoming, puck carrying opponent, the onus is on Steven Strong to not make contact with his knee as the primary contact point. It is conclusive that the primary and majority of impact was caused by the extension of the right knee of Steven Strong, creating a knee to knee impact. The impact that was sustained by the opposing player, was directly to his knee, with little to no body to body contact. It is determined that that although the opposing players right leg was extended and considered part of a natural skating motion while turning, he did not alter or significantly change his skating path immediately before contact, which would contribute to the knee to knee contact. The play is deemed as recklessly endangering the opponent. This is not considered a legal or good hockey play. There was an apparent injury, to the opposing player. Effective immediately, Steven Strong is suspended for 3 games.

 

- Extension of knee to make contact

- Knee on knee contact

- Apparent injury to opposing player

- Not a repeat offender

 

 

Next game Steven Strong (#24) of EC-KAC is allowed to play: Fri, 07.04.2017: EC-KAC vs. UPC Vienna Capitals, Final Game #4

 

DOPS made available following video: