CHURCHBRIDGE — A close call has resulted in a wake up call amongst one hockey player's fellow league members.
Cole Cusitar is a name synonymous with hockey in Churchbridge, not only for his prowess as a captain with the SEHL Imperials (he was also feted with the Most Dedicated Imperial earlier this year during the teams’ awards night), but also as a coach for the younger set in town.
Cusitar was even instrumental in getting the senior-level Imperials back on the ice in Churchbridge last season after a nine-season hiatus.
In a recent meeting with the Esterhazy Flyers on Dec. 7 (who also recently returned to the SEHL), Cusitar found himself at the centre of a very serious incident that left him with a deep cut to his neck running from ear to chin.
“There was a face-off in the Esterhazy end with the Imperials on a 5-on-3 power play,” described Mike Stackhouse in an update on Cusitar’s condition. “Off the draw, an Esterhazy player skated up the ice with the puck and the Imperials goaltender made a save, resulting in a stoppage. At the other end of the ice was a Churchbridge player down (Cole Cusitar) and an Esterhazy player frantically waving his arms and screaming for help.”
Cusitar was quickly taken off the ice and rushed to hospital in Yorkton by ambulance. By Sunday morning, he was reported to be in stable condition, recovering from his injuries. According to SEHL staff, Cusitar received 80 stitches inside and outside of the area where he was cut. Response on social media noted dozens of messages wishing Cusitar a speedy recovery, from fans and opposing teams in the SEHL alike.
The accident has prompted Imperials players to all wear neck guards, and while the protective equipment is not mandatory, the SEHL encourages all on-ice players and officials to wear such protective gear as ‘one incident like this is one too many.’
“Any mandates on neck guards would come from Sask Hockey, but we are strongly suggesting players and officials in our league to start wearing them if not already,” Stackhouse told the World-Spectator.
