Date
August 9, 2024
Game
Tailgaters vs the Predators
Details
Late in the first period, offsetting penalties were called, resulting in continued 5-on-5 play. At the end of the penalty, the Predators player did not wait for a stoppage in play before returning to the ice. A penalty for Illegal Substitution was called. The player did not believe the call was fair and expressed his frustration to the official with profanities and insults, resulting in a game misconduct/ejection.
In the second period, a Predators player went to the opposing bench, allegedly to complain about the officiating, while in earshot of an official. They then engaged directly with the official, resulting in a bench minor being issued. The player responded with insults and received a game misconduct/ejection. The player refused to leave the ice surface, contributing to the cancellation of the game.
After the match concluded, a Predators player (unrelated to the aforementioned incidents) followed an official while they were exiting the ice to complain. They ended their complaint by, allegedly, threatening to shoot a puck at them the next game they officiate.
Result
A Predators player received a 1-game suspension for Verbal Abuse of an Official.
A Predators player received a 1-game suspension for Verbal Abuse of an Official.
A Predators player received a 3-game suspension for Verbal Abuse of, Threats towards an Official.
A reminder to all players of sections 5.6 and 6.11 of the ARL Rule Book:
5.6 REFEREE COMMUNICATIONS
The referees are not required to respond to individual player inquires.
6.11 GAME MISCONDUCTS
A game misconduct penalty shall be assessed to any player who:
- Persists in disputing or shows disrespect for the ruling of any official.
- Uses obscene, profane or abusive language or gestures to any person.
If there is a disagreement about how a game is being called, it should be handled after the game via league management. Taking your frustrations out on the ice will never end well for anyone.