Brantford Bulldogs player Ryder Boulton has been handed a six-game suspension by the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) for a hit on an opposing player during a recent game.
The incident occurred during a game against the Hamilton Bulldogs on October 15th, when Boulton delivered a hit to the head of Hamilton’s Ryan Winterton. The hit resulted in Winterton being taken off the ice on a stretcher and being hospitalized for a concussion.
After reviewing the play, the OHL determined that Boulton’s hit was a violation of the league’s rules and issued a six-game suspension. This means that Boulton will not be eligible to play in any OHL games until November 2nd.
Boulton, who is in his second season with the Brantford Bulldogs, has expressed remorse for his actions and has apologized to Winterton and the Hamilton Bulldogs organization. He has also stated that he will use this time to reflect on his actions and work on improving his on-ice behavior.
The Brantford Bulldogs organization has also released a statement, acknowledging the severity of the incident and supporting the OHL’s decision to suspend Boulton. They have also emphasized the importance of player safety and have stated that they will work with Boulton to ensure that he understands the consequences of his actions.
This is not the first time that Boulton has faced disciplinary action from the OHL. Last season, he was suspended for three games for a hit to the head of an opposing player.
The OHL has been cracking down on dangerous hits and enforcing stricter penalties in recent years, in an effort to prioritize player safety. This suspension serves as a reminder to all players that reckless and dangerous behavior on the ice will not be tolerated.
The Brantford Bulldogs will have to play without Boulton for the next six games, but they are confident in their ability to continue their season without him. Boulton’s suspension serves as a lesson for all players to play within the rules and respect the safety of their opponents.
