PLAYER SAFETY ANNOUNCES SUSPENSIONS FOR 3/8/24

From The FPHL Department of Player Safety

Binghamton, NY – The FPHL Department of Player Safety today have announced the following suspensions.

Carolina Thunderbirds Koepplinger, SUSPENDED
Carolina forward Josh Koepplinger has been suspended for One Game as a result from his actions during FPHL Game No. 229 in Columbus, GA on Friday, March 8th.  FPHL Director of Player Safety Dave Jackson stated, “This was not a hockey hit. He was not attempting to separate his opponent from the puck. Mr. Koepplinger appeared frustrated from a play in front of the net and appeared to be taking his revenge on his opponent behind the goal line. This hit was careless, reckless and bordered on malicious as he elevated through his opponent. Fortunately, no serious injury occurred. Mr. Koepplinger will be suspended for ONE (1) GAME." 

Watertown Wolves Tomasi, SUSPENDED
Watertown forward Joshua Tomasi has been suspended for One Game as a result from his actions during FPHL Game No. 232 in Fraser, MI on Friday, March 8th.  FPHL Director of Player Safety Dave Jackson stated, “In this incident, we do not have two willing combatants fighting. Mr. Gullo grabbed and pinned his opponent along the boards, and Mr. Tomasi decided to react by grabbing Mr. Gullo, throwing his gloves off and fight an opponent that was an unwilling combatant who also was wearing a protective visor. Mr. Tomasi continued throwing punches to a defenseless player, which is the definition of an aggressor. I am rescinding Mr. Gullo’s fighting major and Mr. Tomasi will be suspended for ONE (1) GAME."

The FPHL is a Single-A Minor Professional hockey league operating in its 14th season during 2023-24.