A scary incident in Springfield, Mass. last night forced the postponement of the Phantoms’ game against the Springfield Falcons. Adirondack defenseman Brandon Manning hit Falcons forward Wade MacLeod into the glass from behind, and freakishly, the relatively benign hit caused MacLeod to have a seizure right on the ice.
“Wade is alert, in good condition, in positive spirits, and is resting comfortably at Baystate Medical Center,” his family said in a released statement Sunday evening. “He will remain at the hospital while he undergoes tests. We are deeply appreciative of all the caring and kind words we have received from family, friends, and fans.”
A Phantoms press release attempted to explain the incident in more detail:
Wade MacLeod collapsed on his way back to the Springfield Falcons bench and went into convulsions on the ice in a scary incident that involved the training staffs of both teams as well as the very quick actions and responses of the emergency medical personnel on scene.
A teammate saw MacLeod struggling as he was getting to the bench and helped to catch him as he fell.
Manning was given a two-minute minor for boarding on the play. It was definitely a fair call, but the hit wasn’t particularly egregious — like the video shows, it really seems like it was just a freak accident with the way MacLeod’s head hit the glass. He began skating away before collapsing near the bench. Manning apologized and sent his well wishes in a series of tweets after the game.
would like to give my best to Wade MacLeod and his family. never had any intention of ever hurting another player..
— Brandon Manning (@BManning28) February 17, 2013
hope for a speedy recovery and see him back on the ice soon. thoughts and prayers to him and his family
— Brandon Manning (@BManning28) February 17, 2013
With just 3:42 remaining on the second period clock at the time of the injury, the teams had agreed to tack that time on to the start of the third period. But during the intermission, the coaches and players all agreed it was best to suspended play for the evening. The Phantoms said that “the emotions of the moment were likely a significant factor” in the decision to stop playing the game.
No word on when the game will be resumed. The Phantoms were up 2-1 at the time of the suspension.
