Sask. hockey player recovering after near fatal skate accident during game

The Sask East Hockey League (SEHL) has released details of a near fatal accident at one of its games late last week – which saw a Churchbridge Imperials player suffer serious injuries after being struck with a skate.

The incident took place during the third period of play in a game between the Imperials and Esterhazy Flyers on Dec. 7.

The Imperials were on a five on three power-play when the two sides met for faceoff on the Flyers end of the ice. Following the faceoff, an Esterhazy player skated up the ice and attempted a shot on the Imperials net.

The goaltender made a save and play was stopped.

“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,” the release read.

According to the league, Cusitar was carried off the ice and rushed to hospital – as he was suffering from a wide and deep cut located under his jaw line, up high on his neck.

Play continued, but upon learning that STARS Air Ambulance had been called, the game was immediately called off with 6:55 remaining in the third period.

It’s believed that Cusitar fell to the ice after the draw and the blade of another player’s skate made accidental contact with his neck area.

The league went on to explain that the cut was just half an inch away from Cusitar’s jugular vein. It was later decided that the air ambulance service was not needed.

Cusitar was taken by ambulance to hospital in Yorkton, where he was treated. As of 9:30 Sunday morning, the 35-year-old from Russel, Man. was out of surgery, escaping a "potentially, fatal tragedy," according to the league.

Cusitar reportedly received 80 stitches stemming from the laceration on his face and neck.

The Churchbridge Imperials have stated that its players will wear neck guards following the incident, with the league strongly encouraging all on-ice players and officials to do the same.

“One incident like this is one too many,” the release read.

The league ended off by thanking all those who assisted Cusitar following the accident.

“You are all part of the reason why this wasn't worse.”