The CHL Sport Disciplinary Panel has ruled to suspend Paul Stapelfeldt (#18) of the Graz99ers, who at time 12:10 was involved in an incident deemed as a “Kneeing” (IIHF Rule 50). The video evidence has determined the incident to be worthy of supplementary discipline under Category 1 – “Careless”.

According to the Arbitrator and having considered the video evidence and ruling of the CHL PSC, Paul Stapelfeldt (#18) of the Graz99ers, will receive supplementary discipline under IIHF Rule 50 – Kneeing.

Tuesday night, Graz player #18 Paul Stapelfeldt was involved in an incident deemed as Kneeing, in which he was assessed a major penalty and automatic game misconduct, on Saipa forward #75 Patrik Siikanen resulting in an apparent injury.

As the video shows, Stapelfeldt lines himself up for a body check skating forward, directly at Siikanen considered in possession of the puck. Sensing pressure and to make a move, Siikanen shifts to his left, attempting to avoid contact and skate around Stapelfeldt. Stapelfeldt now at risk of missing the hit adjusts his lower body, jutting his knee out into the knee of Siikanen, recklessly causing a leg-on-leg collision. 

This is Kneeing.

It is important to note; this is not a case where a sudden movement by a player receiving the hit creates an unavoidable knee-on-knee impact. Stapelfeldt adjusts to Siikanen’s movement by extending his leg out, significantly insuring contact is made. This extension resulted in leg-on-leg contact, with the force necessary to merit supplementary discipline.

The CHL Sport Disciplinary Panel suspends Paul Stapelfeldt (#18) of the Graz99ers for 1 game, effective immediately, and issue a fine of €700, effective immediately In addition, Paul Stapelfeldt (#18) will be considered a repeat offender in the event additional supplementary discipline is required within the CHL.

Video Explanation