The Maritime Junior Hockey League (MJHL) is conducting a formal investigation following a frightening on-ice incident that left 17-year-old defenceman Josh Vincent injured during a Wildcats–Amherst Ramblers matchup, raising renewed concerns about player safety across the league.
The incident occurred just 2:23 into the second period when Vincent, a defenceman from Drummondville, Quebec, was skating behind his own net to retrieve the puck. As he turned toward the boards, Amherst Ramblers forward Jack O’Blenis delivered a forceful check from behind, sending Vincent head-first into the boards. The impact was immediate and alarming, prompting officials to stop play as medical personnel rushed onto the ice.
Team medical staff from both the Wildcats and the Ramblers attended to Vincent for several minutes, creating a tense and somber atmosphere inside the arena. After receiving on-ice treatment, Vincent was eventually helped off the ice, though the seriousness of the moment clearly affected players and spectators alike. While the game did resume after the extended delay, the incident cast a shadow over the remainder of the contest.
In a statement issued on February 1, MJHL director of communications James Faulkner confirmed the league is limiting public information out of respect for Vincent and his family. “Our thoughts are with the player, family, friends, and everyone involved in the situation,” Faulkner said. He added that no further medical details would be released, citing privacy considerations, particularly given the player’s age.
On the ice, officials assessed O’Blenis a major penalty for checking from behind, along with a game misconduct. Faulkner later confirmed that O’Blenis, a 20-year-old forward from Salisbury, New Brunswick, has been suspended indefinitely pending a formal disciplinary hearing expected to take place this week. The league’s investigation will include video review, referee reports, and any additional relevant statements.
Checking from behind is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous infractions in hockey due to the high risk of spinal and head injuries, especially when players are unable to brace for impact. As a result, such incidents often carry significant supplemental discipline beyond in-game penalties.
O’Blenis was originally drafted by the Valley organization in 2021, traded to Miramichi in 2022, and later acquired by Amherst in 2023, adding an additional layer of complexity to the situation.
As the MJHL review continues, the primary focus remains on Josh Vincent’s recovery and the league’s responsibility to uphold player safety. Further updates are expected following the conclusion of the disciplinary hearing later this week.