Burnaby, BC – February 22, 2011
The British Columbia Hockey League has suspended Merritt Centennials defenseman Jon-Paul Witkop for two games as a result of a checking from behind major penalty during a game on Saturday, February 19th against Trail.
At 19:54 of the first period, Witkop delivered a check from behind to Smoke Eaters defenceman Clayton McEwan. McEwan wasn't injured on the play and did return to the game. Officials assessed Witkop a major penalty for checking from behind and a game misconduct on the play. The two game suspension is automatic under the Junior A Supplement.
Witkop will miss Friday and Saturday's games in Salmon Arm to start the playoffs. He's eligible to return on Monday, February 28th for Game Three in Merritt.
The Merritt Centennials, proudly celebrating 38 years as the BCHL's longest continuously run franchise, are a non-profit, community owned Junior 'A' Hockey Club run by a dedicated team of investors, directors, and volunteers.
