Article content

A 31-year-old recreational hockey player has been sentenced to 18-months probation after a rare criminal conviction for an on-ice collision — a decision that his lawyer says has set a dangerous precedent that could chill participation in such hockey leagues.

Ontario Court Justice Diane Lahaie described the incident, which took place during an Ottawa Senior Men’s Hockey League game on March 12, 2012, as a “deliberate blindside hit.”

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or Assault conviction for hockey hit will have 'chilling effect' on recreational leagues, lawyer warns Back to video

However, Patrick McCann insists his client, Gordon MacIsaac, did not intentionally hit 31-year-old Drew Casterton.

The collision broke some of Mr. Casterton’s teeth, scarred his face and caused a concussion that resulted in debilitating headaches.

MacIsaac was convicted at trial of aggravated assault, and at sentencing on Wednesday he was also ordered to pay $5,000 to Mr. Casterton, provide a DNA sample, was banned from possessing a weapon and was forbidden to play or coach competitive sports during his 18 months’ probation.