Suspension Kevin Fink

Kevin Fink (#91) of Rittner Buam SkyAlps, time 53:52, made contact with an opponent deemed as interference, IIHF Rule 56. Based on the video evidence, it is determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 2 – ‘Reckless’ – a deliberate and/or dangerous action with no concern for the result, with a conscious action to provoke, through intent and a willful purpose. Injury is not the determining factor but can be considered as influential means to the decision.

Saturday night, October 22nd, in Ritten, Ritten forward #91 Kevin Fink was assessed a 5-minute Major and a Game-Misconduct for Interference against Linz D'Man #94 Paul Eder, resulting in an apparent and reported injury.

As the video shows, Ritten gains possession of the puck in the attacking zone with Eder playing a 1 on 1 defensive play on the puck carrier and Fink skating down from the high slot area. Ritten chooses to take the puck behind the attacking net. As both the puck carrier and Eder are skating behind the net, Fink delivers a hard, forceful hit on Eder that makes substantial head contact, knocking him to the ice and causing an injury.
This is Interference.

It is important to note that Eder was never in possession of the puck on this play and therefore is not eligible to be checked in any manner. This is not deemed a collision with no intent to make contact. From the moment Ritten gained puck possession, Fink had more than ample time and opportunity to make a better choice.

Considering Ritten is in the attacking zone, the choice of running a pick play, which includes substantial body contact, is a choice Fink must avoid. Fully aware of a common play in skating behind the net and with a substantial amount of time to change his path, avoid contact entirely or to minimize contact, Fink skates directly at and braces himself to make forceful contact. Because Eder is never in possession of the puck, he
is not prepared or aware of an unsuspecting opponent, making him more vulnerable.

Effective immediately, Kevin Fink (#91) of Rittner Buam SkyAlps is suspended for 4 games.

To summarize:
- This is Interference
- Forceful and Reckless
- Not a repeat offender

Previous suspensions:
none

Next game Kevin Fink (#91) of Rittner Buam SkyAlps is allowed to play:
17.11.2022 Red Bull Hockey Juniors vs. Rittner Buam SkyAlps