A hockey coach in Quebec could face a lifetime ban after he punched a 16-year-old player during a game. (QMI Agency/TVA)
SAGUENAY, QUE. - A minor-hockey coach could face a lifetime ban after he punched a 16-year-old player from the opposing team during a game in this city on the weekend.
Violence broke out with about 10 seconds left in the match between two midget teams on Saturday.
The referee's report, obtained by QMI Agency, said a player from the Chicoutimi Cougars tried to jump over the bench of the Jonquiere Pumas.
An assistant coach tried to grab the player in question, before holding onto the teen's stick.
That's when the Pumas head coach came over and punched him in the head, the report said.
The coach of the player who was punched said his rival crossed the line.
"We're talking about a man in his forties doing something like that to a 16-year-old," said Cougars head coach Eric Gagne. "For me raising your hand to a player of that age is wrong."
Things degenerated when a Pumas player fell after being pushed by a linesman. The official was immediately tackled by other Pumas players, one of whom grabbed the linesman by the head before slamming into the ice.
"The official's visor was attached to his helmet with metal screws but after the match he had it in his hands," said Gagne.
Both Pumas coaches could be suspended for making contact with a player, according to the regional hockey association's rules.
The players who left the bench and attacked the linesman could also receive sanctions.
