I didn't realize that different leagues can have enforce penalties to
different extents.  I'm talking about the CCHA's misconduct and DQ on a
hitting from behind penalty.  Since my experience is limitted to ECAC play,
please keep that in mind.  In the ECAC, hitting from behind is a common
contact penalty.  More common than tripping I would say.  I've never seen
a player receive anything but a two minute minor for this.  Sometimes this
"Greeking" penalty is a catch-all, like interference.  In cases where the
hit maybe more spectacular (to refrain from saying viscious), a charge or
elbowing is called.
    As for the Hill incident, I have a question.  No matter
what the infraction is, if a player draws blood it is an automatic major
penalty.  However, if a player is temporarily paralyzed and taken off the ice
on a stretcher with his spine immobilized it is only a minor.  What gives?
It seems that a major penalty would have been more applicable.
    Another observation relating to what was said about the style
of the coaches and their effect on the game.  Walker Arena is the
smallest rink in the league.  This puts more emphasis on strenght and
board play than a bigger ice surface does.  However, it doesn't appear
to me that their are more penalties called per game here.  It depends
more upon the style of play.  If a team comes in and tries to finesse
the play, the game winds up to be relative penalty free.  So I do agree
that the coach is directly responsible for the way his team plays.  It
is him who has the final say on who plays and who is recruited.  This
also applies to Colorado College's play.
 
Enough from me.  I'm looking forward to two good games this weekend
with Vermont and RPI in town.
 
Mike Zak
Clarkson '87, '90,... (Fall '91 ?!), (P. Belanger free I doubt.  Bill
Fenwick was very correct.)