Youth Hockey Player Suspended After Vicious Stick Attack
An 11-year-old player has been suspended indefinitely following an incident where he slashed an opponent in the face during a Massachusetts youth hockey game.
A Massachusetts youth hockey game took a violent turn on Saturday when an 11-year-old player from the Bay State Breakers allegedly slashed an opposing player in the face from behind with his hockey stick. The incident occurred during a game in Foxborough, Massachusetts, reportedly involving players around the age of 11.
The victim, a skater for the South Shore Kings, was near his own goal when the Bay State Breakers player approached from behind and made contact with his face. The force of the blow was strong enough to break the attacking player's stick in half.
Officials immediately intervened, with one referee separating the players. The ejected player has been suspended indefinitely from practices and games by the Bay State Breakers organization. The team stated that they do not condone the violent play and that the suspended player has written an apology letter to his victim.
Massachusetts Hockey, the governing body for the sport in the state, is currently investigating the incident. They have stated that the matter is being handled in accordance with Massachusetts Hockey and USA Hockey’s discipline processes. A decision on the length of the suspension will be determined by Massachusetts Hockey.
The father of the victim confirmed that his son is unharmed. Video footage of the incident circulated online, drawing significant attention. The parent who recorded the attack noted that while the two players had a prior on-ice interaction, the game had otherwise been free of notable conflict.
The Bay State Breakers organization fields teams for ages 6 through 18 and competes in premier youth hockey leagues in New England. The league is committed to competition and player development.