This is not intended to be a criticism of officials, because we all know
they are nice guys who are just trying to earn a living.  What I have
observed during 20 years of hockey at Ferris State is a difference of
interpretation of what constitutes a fight.  Some players (from certain
teams who I do not need to mention) are allowed the complementary
"sucker punch" after the whistle based on their stature.  Other players
are disqualified for the same thing.  If you read the rules, a punch is
a fight.  If this is strictly enforced, there are going to be a lot of
star players sitting out 3 games or the season. I guess my greatest
concern is the new WCHA rule may actually discourage officials from
brooming a playerfor throwing a punch or two.  Imagine the wrath of a
coach if his big winger was thrown out for the season.  Instead of
cleaning up fighting, this rule may put too much pressure on the
officials to penalize cheap shots. What we'll likely see are a bundle of
double minors for roughing.
 
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