NHL Referee Chris Rooney Injured in Game 7 Between Toronto Maple Leafs and Florida Panthers
A harrowing incident occurred during Game 7 between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Florida Panthers, as NHL referee Chris Rooney was forced to exit the game after taking a stick to the face along the boards. The Irish Star reports that Rooney was injured with just under 19 minutes remaining in the second period, when he was struck by Niko Mikkola’s stick.
According to eyewitnesses, Rooney swiftly crumpled to the ground following the contact, as players from both sides emphatically waved over medical personnel. As blood began to profusely pour out of a gash dangerously close to Rooney’s eye, one medical staff member applied heavy pressure with a towel to the impacted area. The Irish Star noted that, although a stretcher was brought out onto the ice, Rooney was eventually able to skate off under his own power as those in attendance at Scotiabank Arena rained down cheers.
The Irish Star quoted TNT’s group of pundits, who expressed concern for Rooney and his wellbeing. "What makes it even more dangerous is that when the stick came up, it got the shield and then the shield ended up on his forehead. And then the contact … really no chance for him to protect himself," said Eddie Olczyk. Brian Boucher added, "You just hope that the eye is not damaged." Play-by-play announcer Kenny Albert chimed in, highlighting Rooney’s character: "Chris Rooney, one of the really good guys in the sport of hockey. We’ve all known him for many, many years. Great hockey family from the Boston area."
As reported by the Irish Star, Rooney’s absence led to backup referee Garrett Rank rushing out of the dressing room to assume his spot. The incident sparked an outpouring of support on social media, with droves of hockey fans offering prayers for Rooney and wishing him a speedy recovery. "Praying for Chris Rooney in Toronto. Man I’m hoping that missed his eye. He leaked A LOT," one X user wrote. Another added, "Prayers up to Chris Rooney. One of the best in the business. Hopefully that doesn’t force him to retire, would be a damn shame to end such a career like that!"
The Irish Star also reported that, over an officiating career that’s spanned the better part of three decades, Rooney has refereed over 1,400 regular season contests and nearly 200 playoff games. The Boston, Massachusetts native has worked seven Stanley Cup Finals, the 2010 Winter Classic at Fenway Park, 2010 Vancouver Olympics and 2015 NHL All-Star Game. While undergoing a fitness test at the NHL Officials Training Camp in 2016, Rooney suffered a torn Achilles tendon that sidelined him for the 2016 World Cup of Hockey in Toronto, as well as half of the ensuing NHL season.
As the hockey community rallies around Rooney, the Irish Star will continue to provide updates on his condition. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks that referees take every time they step onto the ice. As fans and pundits alike offer their support, one thing is clear: Chris Rooney is a true professional and a credit to the sport of hockey.
The Irish Star will be keeping a close eye on this developing story and will provide further updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, our thoughts are with Chris Rooney and his family as he recovers from this unfortunate incident.
