Two games suspension for Michele Marchetti

Michele Marchetti (#23) of SHC Fassa Falcons, time 32:22, made contact with an opponent deemed as Roughing, IIHF Rule 158. The video evidence was sent to the AHL Player Safety Committee (PSC), which determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 1 – ‘Careless’ – insufficient attention or thought to avoid harm or error. Liable to happen as a consequence of, by intending to affect an opponent through a reactionary or accidental motion or the incident is deemed careless causing negligence.

According to the Arbitrator and having considered the video evidence and ruling of the AHL PSC, player Michele Marchetti (#23) of SHC Fassa Falcons, will receive supplementary discipline under rule 158 – Roughing.

On Thursday, February 13th, (#23) Michele Marchetti of SHC Fassa Falcons, was involved in an incident deemed as Roughing on EC Bregenzerwald player Stefan Söder (#95). A 5 minute + game misconduct for roughing was assessed by the on ice officials.

As the video shows, a turn over occurred. With Fassa gaining puck possession in their D'Zone, a confrontation ensued away from the puck, in the neutral zone between Michele Marchetti and Stefan Söder. It is deemed Söder initiated the confrontation when he interfered with Marchetti. It is probable that the reason Marchetti took action, in a retaliatory type manner, was due to the interference.

The reason for supplementary discipline, is the action in which Marchetti retaliated. Marchetti used his hand in a forceful manner to punch Söder directly in the head. A forceful punch to the head is a safety concern that cannot be permitted. Although there are many ways to retaliate, a forceful punch to an opposing players head is not an action that is tolerated. Considering the 1 punch was forceful and recklessly endangering, causing an apparent injury, the AHL Player Safety Committee deemed the action worthy of supplementary discipline.

This is not deemed a fight, as there was not 2 willing combatants. Marchetti must refrain from the use of force directed at an opposing players head. Effective immediately, Michele Marchetti (#23) of SHC Fassa Falcons is suspended for 2 games.
Key references:
- Recklessly endangering
- Direct contact to the head of opposing player
- Considered category 1 - Careless
- Not a repeat offender

From the perspective of DOPS and according to the AHL Penalty Catalog Ref. Nr. 116 - Roughing, Michele Marchetti (#23) of SHC Fassa Falcons, is suspended for 2 games, effective immediately.

Next game Michele Marchetti (#23) of SHC Fassa Falcons is allowed to play:
20.02.2020 SHC Fassa Falcons vs. EK Die Zeller Eisbären