Friday, November 14, 2008

KHL Releases Preliminary Cherepanov Findings

The KHL is telling the world today that medical techinicians were not at fault in the passing of hockey player Alexei Cherepanov ((pictured, thanks Getty Images)). Neither were the on-site doctors that attended to him after his collapse on the bench during a game last month.

From TSN:

''They acted professionally and did everything they could. The absence of special medical equipment in the arena was not the cause of death of this hockey player,'' said KHL Vice-President of Hockey Operations Vladimir Shalaev. ''This does not mean, however, that the charges pending will be dismissed nor does it mean that there will be no disciplinary action against these individuals. The KHL acted appropriately and within its bounds in imposing sanctions against the Vityaz club director and other officials involved in this tragic accident.''

That "revelation" and the finding that five KHL players, all under the age of 20, were found to have serious health concerns during the league's own health investigations were all that came out of today's presser in Russia.

''Of this group, it appears that one or two young hockey players may have significant health concerns and may have to change their careers,'' said Shalaev. ''This will be a big disappointment to them, but that is the nature of professional sports. The KHL has an obligation to these young men not to endanger their health in any way.''

Shalaev did not appear to have a rear-view mirror on his desk as he made his statements.

The league would not go in to any further details about the criminal investigation, as it is ongoing, and was not closed by November 14th. The "comprehensive" medical exam on Cherepanov is still moving forward as well.

Look for resolution at a moment when the world isn't paying all that much attention anymore.

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