Reading a story in the Canadian Press this morning about fighting. An expert panel dealing with concussions recommends that fighting be eliminated from all levels of hockey. Obviously there are some good points raised, and there's a chance of severe injury every time players put up their dukes. Then again, it's hard to imagine hockey without it.
The article also talks about the The Concussion Summit of mid-January, and of four former players on the panel. Three of them, Eric Lindros, Jeff Beukeboom and Alyn McCauley, all suffered severe concussion problems that forced them out of the game. Lindros had at least eight concussions, most sustained in hits. Beukeboom dealt with post-concussion symptoms two years after he retired; a Matt Johnson sucker punch was the biggest culprit in his injury.
It's a big topic right now in the NHL. So what's your opinion: Should fighting stay or go?
--Tracey Myers
Fighting is good. Keep it.
If we do move to eliminate fighting, can we just go all the way and have the players wear figure skating outfits as well?
Posted by: John in Big D | February 11, 2009 at 12:37 PM
Canadian guy here... I heard this debate since I was a kid. One thing I noticed, those who want to ban fighting in hockey are usually NOT hockey fans.
Another thing I noticed: When a fight erupts during a game, everybody in the house stand up and cheer.
My personal opinion: fighting should definitely stay. I love it, and very few serious injuries happens during fights. It's FUN! Proof: watch this great fight between McSorley and the man, Bob Probert:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_7xTZFfAG8
Those who are against fighting should move to Finland and watch crappy hockey
Posted by: Oliver | February 11, 2009 at 08:09 PM