Pietroniro suspended for 14 games

BOUCHERVILLE, Tuesday April 28, 2015 – The Director of Player Safety of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, Raymond Bolduc suspended Chad Pietroniro of the Baie-Comeau Drakkar for 14 games. The suspension was handed out following an incident that occurred on April 21 against the Val-d’Or Foreurs.

Here is the rationale that led to the decision:

At the end of the game, both teams start discussing a video that was projected on the giant screen. Two players, including the player at fault, started a fight.

The linesman broke them up.

He then accompanied the player at fault and directed him towards the exit door of the Baie-Comeau bench.

The player resisted and then left the ice.

When both skates had left the ice surface the player turned around and head-butted the linesman, helmet to helmet.

A major penalty (code 4.92, category 3) was given to the Baie-Comeau player for physical abuse towards an official.

The rule is clear in these circumstances, a minimum 20 game suspension should be granted.

However the Director of Player Safety considered the frustration caused by the inappropriate video, the fact the official wasn’t injured and that the headbutt wasn’t at maximum force when making his decision.

The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League does not tolerate any verbal and or physical abuse towards officials.

The Director of Player Safety made this decision after having considered the officials report, spoken to the player involved and consulting with the Advisory Committee for disciplinary action.