Saturday, April 27, 2013

Video review of Baie-Comeau offside goal

Press Release

Following last night’s controversial goal in the game between the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada and Baie-Comeau Drakkar, the commissioner of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, Gilles Courteau, issued the following statement:

“It is unfortunate that the result of a game was determined by an offside goal without the possibility of a video review. It is for that reason that as a League, we are taking the initiative to bring this addition to the Canadian Hockey League. We will therefore formulate a directive, beginning next season, allowing video review for all offside goals. The QMJHL has a very competent and passionate group of officials; because of the fast-paced nature of hockey sometimes things go unnoticed on the ice. It is for this reason that a technological aid will allow officials, during this type of situation, to make adjustments, if necessary, in order to make the right decision.”

For his part, the League’s Director of officiating, Richard Trottier added: “officials are the first to want to review a game to ensure that their decisions are correct. By having the possibility to verify them by video review, we can eliminate such situations which have a direct impact on the outcome of a game.”

The commissioner added that this is not the first time a situation was brought to the CHL; last year, video review was added for goals scored with a high stick and or a hand pass.

“We are always trying to ensure that our officials have the necessary tools so that they can make just and equitable decisions for all our teams,” added the commissioner.

 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

No comments: