Marco Scandella suspended indefinitely

BOUCHERVILLE, Thursday, February 4, 2010 – The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Disciplinary Prefect, Raymond Bolduc, today suspended Val-d’Or Foreurs defenseman Marco Scandella indefinitely for a hit to the head. The incident occurred during yesterday’s game versus the Rimouski Océanic.

"This afternoon, Raymond Bolduc informed me of his decision to suspend Marco Scandella indefinitely," said League Commissioner Gilles Courteau. "After seeing the hit, I believe it is the right decision while the disciplinary process runs its course. Our position is clear: We have a responsibility to protect our players. Their safety is our number one priority."

The disciplinary process will follow existing protocols. The Disciplinary Prefect will collect the testimonies of the on-ice officials, the players and of members of both organizations. The Disciplinary Prefect will then analyse the facts and review his findings with the Disciplinary Sanctions Committee before making a decision. No timetable has yet been set.

The Disciplinary Prefect will not be available for comment during the process.