I know the argument is that a lot of players take their helmets off before the fight, therefore they are responsible for any damage that may come as a result.
I would tell you, if that is your train of thought, you are not necessarily wrong.
With the exception of a widely unknown rule hidden somewhere in the National Hockey League rule book.
Article 47.6 Face Protection - If a player penalized as an instigator of an altercation is wearing a face shield (including a goalkeeper), he shall be assessed an additional unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.
So fighters with visors who take their helmets off are not being stupid, or macho. They are simply making sure they do not pick up any additional penalties that may hurt their team in the long run.
Hockey is a high intensity, full contact sport. And fighting is not mandatory. It is something the players engage in, usually by their own doing.
Despite that, it still cannot be stated enough. To take a phrase from Don Cherry, we have lost a "beauty."
Don Sanderson is gone. Nothing can change that now.
His death may serve as a wake-up call to the NHL and Major Junior hockey throughout North America, which would mandate rules. Not to outlaw fighting, but rather to enforce stricter equipment guidelines when it comes to helmets and chin straps.
He was a friend, a teammate, and a son.
And now he is gone. Taken far too early.
Here is hoping he did not die in vain, and at the very least something good can come from this.
I would like to remind everyone that there is a link you can click to send your thoughts and condolences along to the Sanderson family, as well as the Whitby Dunlops hockey organization.
To view the website and leave your thoughts and prayers, click HERE
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