The Associated Press reports Michigan State head coach Rick Comley has suspended Andrew Conboy and Corey Tropp for the remainder of the season following their attack on Michigan defenseman Steve Kampfer near the end of Saturday's game.
"What happened near the end of the game this weekend is not the way in which we want our hockey program represented," Comley said in a news release. "We cannot condone their actions. We felt that we had to send a strong message that this behavior will not be tolerated."
MSU athletic director Mark Hollis said he and Comley agreed that their actions were "were spontaneous, emotional actions carried out during a highly competitive game" but added "their actions were completely inappropriate and reflect poorly on our program."
The CCHA is conducting their own investigation and will issue their report by Friday.
I'm pleased enough by this, especially since there's always a chance Michigan and Michigan State could meet in the CCHA playoffs and if those two played all hell would break loose.
Tropp, based on his clean past, I expect to be back next season and given another chance.
But I do hope Conboy considers leaving for major junior hockey or signs a pro contract with Montreal (his draft team) if all he wants to do is be an enforcer in hockey (and judging by his stats, that's all he ever will be). At least there fighting is tolerated. I never understand guys like him in college hockey. Putting up five points and 76 penalty minutes in 21 games isn't exactly helping your team, unless their goal is to play shorthanded all the time. Last year in junior hockey he had 210 penalty minutes. Seriously, just leave.'
UPDATE: The CCHA has released a statement on the suspensions.
FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. – The CCHA, upon review of the on-ice incidents in the Jan. 24th game between Michigan and Michigan State, fully supports the decision of Michigan State’s athletic administration to suspend the playing privileges of players Corey Tropp and Andrew Conboy for the remainder of the season, including playoffs.
"We feel that the measures taken by Michigan State are appropriate and consistent with the parameters of the sanctions that were being contemplated by the league," stated CCHA Commissioner Tom Anastos.