Capitals hockey team suspended from league play

The Jefferson City Capitals high school varsity and junior varsity teams have been suspended from participating in the Mid America High School Hockey League for violating league conduct rules.

The Capitals varsity and junior varsity teams had all their games forfeited this season and will not be allowed to participate in the upcoming playoffs.

Through 18 games, the Capitals varsity team had nearly 140 more penalty minutes than the next nearest team in the nine-team league, MAHSHL commissioner Dennis King said in a statement released last week. He also stated there have been 12 game or match penalties assessed to the Capitals, close to the combined total of the other eight league teams.

"Following several incidences this season and communications from the league with the coaching staff, there has been no progress in improving the team's conduct," King stated. "... When this type of conduct is consistent game after game, the league objective to provide a safe environment while exhibiting sportsmanship and behavior beyond reproach is compromised."