Emotional regional hockey rivalries are the staples of leagues across New Brunswick.

However, those emotions boiled over in a big way during weekend Southern Hockey League action between the Black’s Harbour Silverkings and St. Stephen Seahawks.

In fact, the Charlotte County battle became overheated with officials handing out 266 total penalty minutes in a game at the Fundy Arena in Black’s Harbour. 

The SHL came down hard on the organizations and players following a review of the contest. 

SHL director of operations Randy Thomas meted out 23 games in suspensions and fined each team $300 for their actions.

 “Our coaches and players have a responsibility to govern themselves while participating in a game,” said Thomas. “Control of on ice conduct is an area that requires strict adherence to the rules of the game.” 

Hardest hit following the melee was Black’s Harbour head coach Meryl Stewart who was banished for five games. Chris Hoffman was handed a three-game suspension while teammates David Reynolds, Jarod Borthwick and Greg Buchanan all face two game suspensions. Nick Theriault was suspended one game. 

On the St. Stephen side of the ledger, coach Peter Lindsay was suspended one game along with Chris Richardson. Receiving two game penalties were Scott Goulette, Luke MacLennan and Peter McKnight. 

The incident was sparked at 18:01 of the second period. 

Both teams are eligible to appeal the rulings to Hockey New Brunswick. 

Black’s Harbour won the game, 6-3.