Saturday night in Kosice, HC Košice forward Hunter Fejes (#22) was involved in an Incident deemed as Physical Abuse of an Official.

According to the Arbitrator and having considered the video evidence, Hunter Fejes (#22) of HC Košice, will receive supplementary discipline under - IIHF Rule 40. The supplementary discipline is based on the IIHF Rule stating:

40.2. SUPPLEMENTARY DISCIPLINE – SUSPENSION – CATEGORY I

Any Player who deliberately strikes an Official and could cause an injury or who deliberately applies physical force in any manner against an Official with intent to injure, or who in any manner attempts to injure an Official. For the purpose of the rule, “could cause an injury” shall mean any physical force which a player knew or should have known could reasonably be expected to cause injury.

As the video shows, late in the 3rd period, Fejes is in the attacking zone with puck possession. As he attempts to skate to open ice, a Referee is located in Fejes skating lane. The body-to-body contact between the Referee and Fejes is deemed incidental and considered a part of the game.

The reason for supplementary discipline is the use of the left arm to apply physical force to the the head area of the referee. It was taken into consideration that the arm action of Fejes, may not have been to direct force to the head of the referee with intent. But it is the responsibility of the player to avoid physical force with or without intent.

The CHL Sports Board suspends Hunter Fejes (#22) of HC Kosice for 1 game, effective immediately andand issues a fine of €700. In addition, Hunter Fejes (#22) of HC Kosice, will be considered a repeat offender in the event supplementary discipline is required within the CHL.

Video explanation