VSV defender Hrabal suspended two games

Josef Hrabal (#77) of EC GRAND IMMO VSV time 51:16, was involved in an incident deemed as checking to the head or neck (IIHF Rule 124). The video evidence was sent to the bet-at-home ICE Hockey League PSC, which determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline - Category 1- 'Careless'.

According to the Arbitrator and having considered the video evidence and ruling of the bet-at-home ICE Hockey League PSC, Josef Hrabal (#77) of EC GRAND IMMO VSV will receive supplementary discipline under IIHF rule 124 – checking to the head or neck.

On March 12th in Klagenfurt, an incident occurred involving Villach player #77 Josef Hrabal and Klagenfurt player #18 Thomas Koch, which is deemed checking to the head or neck. A 5 minute major plus game misconduct penalty was assessed by the on-ice officials.

As the video shows, with play in the VSV D'zone and immediately after a shot attempt by KAC, a battle for the loose puck ensues. VSV - Hrabal by the side of the net gains puck possession and chips the puck ahead. With a second battle for the puck between Hrabal and Koch, Hrabal is able to chip the puck a 2nd time. With no one in immediate puck possession, but Koch in the best position to gain puck possession, Hrabal turns from an offensive role to a defensive role and distributes a body check on Koch.

The body check was sent the ICE PSC and determined supplementary discipline is required. The check can be determined as a CFB, as the contact is from behind and distributed to the back portion of Koch. It can also be considered boarding, as excessive force was delivered. Finally, and the reason for supplementary discipline is for a CTH.

It is determined that Hrabal removed (separated) his left arm, elevated and made direct contact with the head and neck area of Koch. The contact propelled Koch's head into the glass.

As per the IIHF Rule 124iii(2) - CHECKING TO THE HEAD OR NECK, which states: "The player drives or forces the head of an opponent into the protective glass or boards by using any part of his upper body"

Effective immediately, Josef Hrabal (#77) of EC GRAND IMMO VSV is suspended for 2 games and fined 500.00 Euros.

Key references:

• This is deemed checking to the head or neck
• Contact to head area of opposing player
• Category 1 - Careless
• Not a repeat offender

From the perspective of DOPS and according to the ICE Hockey League Penalty Catalog Ref. Nr. 111 - checking to the head or neck area, Josef Hrabal (#77) of EC GRAND IMMO VSV is suspended for 2 games and fined 500.00 Euros, effective immediately.

DOPS made following video available: