Ontario Junior Hockey Player Suing After Bodycheck Fractures His Spine
Junior hockey is a popular sport in Canada, with thousands of players participating in leagues across the country. Unfortunately, injuries are not uncommon, and players can suffer serious harm from a wide range of incidents. One Ontario junior hockey player is now suing after a bodycheck during a game resulted in a fractured spine.
The Incident
The incident occurred during a game between the Hamilton Kilty B's and the Brampton Bombers in January 2018. The plaintiff, who was playing for the Kilty B's, had just passed the puck when he was checked from behind by a Brampton player. The force of the hit caused the plaintiff to fall and hit his head on the boards, resulting in a fractured spine.
The plaintiff was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent surgery to repair the damage to his spine. He spent several months in recovery, during which time he was unable to play hockey or participate in other physical activities.
The Lawsuit
After the incident, the plaintiff decided to file a lawsuit against the Brampton player and the Brampton Bombers hockey club. The lawsuit alleges that the Brampton player's actions were reckless and caused the plaintiff to suffer serious harm. It also accuses the Brampton Bombers of failing to properly train their players and prevent dangerous plays from happening on the ice.
The plaintiff is seeking compensation for his medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The lawsuit is ongoing, and it remains to be seen how it will be resolved.
The Dangers of Junior Hockey
Unfortunately, incidents like the one that happened to the plaintiff are not uncommon in junior hockey. With the fast pace and physical nature of the sport, players are at risk for a wide range of injuries, from concussions to broken bones to spinal cord injuries.
While many organizations have taken steps to improve player safety, there is still more that can be done to protect young athletes. This includes stricter penalties for dangerous plays, better training for coaches and players, and improved equipment to reduce the risk of injury.
Conclusion
The lawsuit filed by the Ontario junior hockey player is a reminder of the dangers that athletes face on the ice. While hockey can be a fun and rewarding sport, it is important to take steps to minimize the risk of injury and protect players from harm. As the lawsuit moves forward, it will be interesting to see how the court handles issues of player safety and responsibility in the sport of junior hockey.