Seinäjoki Crocodiles head coach Jaime Hill suspended three games by Maple League
The Maple League has suspended Seinäjoki Crocodiles head coach Jaime Hill for three games following his conduct during last week’s matchup against the Porvoo Butchers, sidelining one of the league’s most experienced coaches during a critical stretch of the season.
Disciplinary ruling
According to the Maple League’s disciplinary committee, the incidents occurred during the closing moments of the July 10 game between the Crocodiles and the Butchers.
The ruling stated that Hill’s actions met the criteria for multiple violations under the SAJL rulebook, including two unsportsmanlike conduct fouls, behavior leading to his ejection from the game, and failing to comply with the requirement that an ejected coach leave the playing area and remain out of sight.
The disciplinary committee also concluded that Hill’s actions constituted a continuous series of incidents directed toward game officials, including inappropriate language, threatening behavior and failure to fulfill the responsibilities of an ejected coach.
As a result, Hill has been suspended from serving as a team official for three games in all competitions governed by the SAJL.
Suspension begins immediately
Hill will serve the suspension during Seinäjoki’s upcoming games against the Porvoo Butchers, Wasa Royals, and Kuopio Steelers.
The disciplinary decision may be appealed through the Sports Legal Protection Board.
Hill issues apology
Following the ruling, Hill submitted a written response to the SAJL regarding the events that unfolded during the game.
According to the Crocodiles, the head coach acknowledged that emotions ran high during the closing seconds of regulation amid confusion surrounding timeouts and the game clock.
In his response, Hill apologized for the language he used during the incident and extended his apologies to both the officiating crew and the SAJL.
The suspension comes at an important point in the Maple League season, with the Crocodiles now facing three consecutive games without their head coach on the sideline.
