Prescott Hockey League - November 15th Incident

On Saturday, November 15th there was an unfortunate incident that has led to the following message to all participants to advise players what this League is about.

This is a reminder that the PHL (Prescott Hockey League) is what's known as "Recreational League"  which is basically an hour of exercise. No stats, playoffs, standings, awards. What is provided are ball caps, insurance and a couple league wide get together for pizza and opportunity to wish each other the best for the holiday season or a "good summer and see you next year". Please also keep in mind that there is and has been a vast range of abilities in our league both male and female with those from the AHL, NHL, CJHL, OHL and Collegiate to those that just started to skate in the past decade or so.

We have endeavored to create a competitive balance between the teams with the hope that games are close and not one directional (large disparity) in goals. Maybe the league needs to refocus on competitive balance and respect and shed the "winning" as a goal.  

Back to the incident and what was observed during this game.

• Goaltender interference on a player chasing a puck carrier around the net
• Goaltenders striking players if they are anywhere near the crease
• Pushing the net of its pegs

Goaltenders this is the final warning about these actions

• Constant "chirping" between players on the ice and bench which only escalated intensity for the wrong reasons
• Also keep the shots low and not up around the goaltenders head, this was the major cause of what happened November 15th. Were not saying this happens frequently, just be aware. NO SLAP SHOTS !!!
• We don't have referees and players are taking advantage of this. There is too much hooking and hacking. If a player beats you let him go. Hooking, holding, clutching, tripping, any kind of interference or physical play is cheating and has no place in this league. Challenge yourself not to cheat!
• Offsides, Icing and after a goal. You have all played the game and no what these are. Give the opposition space to regroup. Stay outside the blue line.  Captains and assistants have been instructed to regulate their teams.
• Play for the love of the game and respect all other players and you will get respect back

What was a good competitively balanced game ended up putting a bad image on our League.

Don't forget, there are parents and their children waiting for the "Learn to Skate Program" and they are watching us.  As one player said, my kids are in the stands, just what they didn't need to see.

Take this as a final warning to all players. This type of behaviour will not be tolerated and will result in your removal from the League. Lets get back to fair play and keep the fun in our Saturday Hockey!

Your Prescott Hockey League Executive Committee

Brian, Brian, Larry, Mark and Tom

Please note: those active participants in the incident November 15th have been spoken to and will be spoken to again concerning this email and to confirm its message is clear and received.