If you are a parent, family member, or friend of a DFW ice hockey player or even a DFW ice hockey player, please view the 5 minute video of the hit/check to our son’s head and the surrounding events during his recreational Non-Checking/Non-Hitting ice hockey game in the Dallas Metro Stars Hockey League on October 29, 2016. This illegal hit/check to our son caused a concussion and upon his doctor’s recommendation, our son can no longer participate in any more youth hockey games for at least the next 2 1/2 years. Just 1/5 into his rookie season on his high school hockey team, our son’s youth hockey career has come to a sudden and tragic end.

Needless to say, our son was devastated when informed that he can no longer play the game he loved. We all know and understand that there are risks of injury in the game of hockey, but given that this incident took place in a Non-Checking/Non-Hitting recreational league, the senselessness and violence of this hit/check makes our son’s outcome especially disturbing.

After the October 29th game, Player #15 (red) received a one game/one week suspension for this illegal hit/check. He has since served the suspension and is eligible to play on his two teams. We feel that missing 1-2 games is inadequate discipline given the context of the incident. Although it is too late to undo our son’s injury and loss of the game he loved, we hope to prevent this tragedy from happening to other DFW hockey players.

We are requesting that the Dallas Stars Metro Hockey League open a hearing to investigate this matter and assess further discipline/suspension to deter such egregious behavior in the future. A hearing and a longer suspension will help send a message that there are serious negative consequences to a player who flagrantly disregards rules which promote player safety. Hopefully with the appropriate discipline and enforcement by the proper authorities, all DFW hockey players may be able to enjoy hockey in a safer environment. If you agree that a hearing and more serious discipline is needed, we (our son included) would appreciate your support in signing the petition. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Letitia and Michael Lii