MHA faces suspension for alleged outbursts at hockey games

Keith Russell, an MHA and hockey coach, is facing a multi-game suspension by Hockey NL after referees said he was verbally abusive at a kids' tournament in Labrador City in early November.

Russell was ejected from two games at the Alvin Parrill Memorial Minor Hockey Tournament in western Labrador.

CBC has learned that an incident involving Russell occurred on Nov. 10, when he was ordered off the bench at a hockey game for arguing with referees.

At another game the next day, a witness says Russell continued to berate the referees from the stands.

A woman who was there said Russell used foul language and upset children who were playing hockey.

The game had to be stopped twice before Russell was escorted out of the building.

An official with Hockey NL said Russell is facing at least a two- to three-game suspension for at least one gross misconduct.

Jack Lee, Hockey NL's president, said the investigation of what happened at the minor hockey games should be completed today.

Reached by phone, Russell said he would not comment on the situation until he hears Hockey NL's decision.

He said he's made a submission to the organization and he may eventually appeal its decision.

Russell made headlines in September when he called aboriginal beliefs about the spiritual significance of the Muskrat Falls area "mumbo jumbo."

He later apologized for the remarks.