Two-game suspension for Graz captain Korbinian Holzer

Korbinian Holzer (#4) of Moser Medical Graz99ers, time 37:08 was involved in an incident deemed as an Illegal Check to the Head or Neck (IIHF Rule 48). The video evidence was sent to the win2day ICE Hockey League PSC, which determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 2 - 'Reckless'.

Friday night in Graz, Graz D'Man #4 Korbinian Holzer was involved in an incident deemed as a check to the head on Bozen forward #10 Dustin Gazley resulting in a 5-minute major penalty plus game-misconduct being assessed. As the video shows, Gazley approaches the attacking zone where he fends of 1 defender who has his hands high and directed at his head. Immediately following, Gazley approaches the puck, where he had no time to properly reset himself and be aware of his surroundings. Circling back and entering the high slot area, Holzer delivers a hit that is deemed forceful, making the head the initial and substantial point of contact. This is an illegal check to the head.

It is important to note, we acknowledge that Gazley is low on this play naturally, as he gains puck possession. He does alter slightly in playing the puck through the extension of his arm, but not the height of his head. This is not deemed a check where a sudden movement turns a legal hit into an illegal one. Holzer chooses to make the forceful check through a movement with his shoulder to the head of Gazley, making substantial head contact, rather than making shoulder to shoulder or chest contact.

The ICE Hockey League Department of Player Safety has suspended Korbinian Holzer for 2 games and fined 500.00 euros.

To summarize:

• This is a check to the head
• Initial contact to the head
• Not a repeat offender

Previous suspension:
none

Next game Korbinian Holzer (#4) of Moser Medical Graz99es is allowed to play:
27.10.2024 Olimpija Ljubljana vs. Moser Medical Graz99ers

DOPS provided the following video: