Wed Oct 31, 2012 10:26 am
CEO STATEMENT - CLARIFICATIONS
Posted on 30 October 2012
“There are some misconceptions and incorrect statements being made about the events that took place after the game last Sunday. We’d like to clear these up.
“Firstly, ice hockey is an aggressive sport. We love it like that and wouldn’t want to see it any other way! Fighting between players on ice is a part of the sport. However, the prolonged confrontation between players that we saw after the heated game with Coventry was very unusual and rare.
“Thankfully incidents that occur off ice involving spectators are even more rare.
“On Sunday night, one individual spectator breached a security barrier, manned by a steward, and approached a Coventry player. The player reacted, resulting in a physical altercation between the two. Having spoken to the police, we have been informed that the fan did not hit the player. No further action will be taken by either party or by the police.
“The individual involved made the decision to involve the police. At no point did any officials on behalf of the Cardiff Devils or the rink deem it necessary to involve the police, as matters were being dealt with by trained and licensed security professionals ,who are always present at every game. The barrier, which was manned by a steward, should not have been breached. However it is not a steward’s role to get involved in rare displays of confrontation. Our stewards do a great job, for which we are grateful.
“Some sources are stating that other spectators were involved, this is not the case. There was only one isolated incident involving one spectator, who has since been contacted by the club and banned from Cardiff Devils games for the rest of the season. The individual concerned is known by the club and has been a spectator for several seasons without incident. He has expressed extreme and sincere remorse and disappointment at his actions. This decision is final.
“Our internal investigation continues to ensure that similar incidents do not occur again in the future. We are strengthening and reinforcing current measures ahead of our next game this Thursday.
“We’re in a good position in the league, and still in the Challenge Cup, with new player signings imminent. Thank you to all our fans for your ongoing support and we look forward to seeing the Devils get on with what they do best and do their talking on the ice!”
Wed Oct 31, 2012 1:02 pm
Not been to see the devils since the old place many years ago. Can you pay on the doors? Whats the atmosphear like? Might take my son for christmas.