WHL Announces Eight-Game Suspension for Thunderbirds' Richards
April 3, 2019 - Western Hockey League (WHL) News Release
Calgary, Alta. - The Western Hockey League announced today that Sean Richards of the Seattle Thunderbirds has been suspended for eight games for a checking-from-behind major penalty and game misconduct, he received during a WHL Playoff game in Seattle on Wednesday, March 27 versus Vancouver.
"Player safety is the first priority for the WHL at all times," commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. "The WHL will continue to take a strong position in dealing with checking-from-behind penalties and players classified as repeat offenders."
Richards was assessed a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for checking from behind at the 4:16 mark of the first period of Seattle's 4-3 win versus Vancouver on Wednesday, March 27, which was Game 4 of the best-of-seven first-round series between the Thunderbirds and Giants.
Richards has served two games of his suspension. Having exhausted his WHL eligibility as a 1998-born player, Richards will be required to serve the remaining six games of his suspension during the 2019-20 season, should he continue his playing career.
Western Hockey League Stories from April 3, 2019
- Brown Headed to IIHF U18 World Championships - Kelowna Rockets
- #WHLPlayoffs Preview: Saskatoon Blades (2) vs. Prince Albert Raiders (1) - Saskatoon Blades
- WHL Announces Six-Game Suspension for Royals' McDonald - WHL
- WHL Announces Eight-Game Suspension for Thunderbirds' Richards - WHL
- Pats Dave Struch Named to Team Canada U18 Coaching Staff - Regina Pats
- Winnipeg ICE Acquire the WHL Rights to '02-Born Forward Carter Savoie - Winnipeg Ice
- Pats Acquire Draft Picks in Trade with Winnipeg - Regina Pats
- AuCoin Signs with Orlando Solar Bears - Tri-City Americans
- Sportsnet Announces Broadcast Schedule for 2019 WHL Playoffs Featuring Raiders & Blades - WHL
- Oil Kings to Meet Calgary Hitmen in Round 2 of WHL Playoffs - Edmonton Oil Kings
- Hitmen Ride Early Advantage to Series Win - Calgary Hitmen
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
