Referee Mitch Dunning Collides with Avalanche Player – What a Shocking Twist on Ice!
PHILADELPHIA — Just when you thought the only drama on the ice was reserved for the players, along comes referee Mitch Dunning, who decided to turn an ordinary game night into a scene straight out of a slapstick comedy — only without the laughter, just a lot of concern and a stretch of his career! Dunning was carried off on a stretcher after an unfortunate rendezvous with Josh Manson of the Colorado Avalanche, who apparently mistook the referee for a puck.
As it turns out, Dunning was taken to hospital for precautionary reasons—a fancy way of saying he needed to make sure all his bits and bobs were working properly after the collision. Luckily, all neurological signs came back normal, proving once again that referees are indeed human (at least until they start handing out penalties for ‘breathing too loud’).
“I didn’t even see it,” remarked Flyers coach John Tortorella with the kind of perplexed bemusement you might expect from someone waking up after a nap with a face full of cake. “But I believe the report I got on my desk after the game…” Cue the internal eye roll. “I think all extremities… we were concerned that he was struggling with his arms, he didn’t have any feeling in his arms. That’s what was told to me. But I think he’s OK.” Well, what heartwarming uncertainty! But hey, as long as he can move, right? A true accomplishment at a hockey game!
The incident, occurring in the first period, was a brutal reminder that while players aim to score, sometimes it’s the referees who get scored upon — only this time, hard! Dunning, positioned in the neutral zone like a deer caught in headlights, fell victim to Manson, who was far more interested in joining the play than checking a human speed bump. The play was halted, and with 13:37 remaining, medical staff rushed to assess the damage—not just to Dunning but perhaps the morale of everyone left on the ice.
Interestingly enough, the players on both teams didn’t just turn a blind eye. They showed concern for the referee as he was whisked away through the Zamboni tunnel—a not-so-glamorous exit that’s usually reserved for ice resurfacing equipment and the occasional errant soda can. It’s nice to see that even amidst the competitiveness, there’s a united front when it comes to looking out for our favorite striped shirts.
Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar added a touch of sincerity, “I hope he’s OK. I actually haven’t even seen it yet. I just got back to the bench, and then next thing I looked out and I saw ‘Mans’ was kind of holding his face…” Which sounds absolutely terrifying and a little too reminiscent of that awkward stage of puberty. “You never want to see that happen, especially on an accident like that. Very tough. So yeah, hopefully he’s OK.” Classic sportsman-like behavior: worrying about the guy who literally calls the shots and yet somehow ends up the one on the stretcher!
Let’s not forget to give a shout-out to Dunning’s impressive resume. At 32, he’s already in his seventh season as an NHL referee, making his debut March 28, 2019. So, it’s safe to say he’s seen quite a few games and probably some colorful language hurled his way as well. Let’s just hope he doesn’t make a habit of a dramatic exit — we prefer our officials on their feet, ruling alongside the teams, and not carting out like special guests at a funeral.
As the Avalanche triumphed in a close 3-2 battle against the Flyers, let’s all engage in a collective prayer—well, more like a wishful thought— for Mitch Dunning to bounce back into the game, no worse for wear. After all, hockey just isn’t the same without a few rogue referees exerting their occasionally questionable authority, right?
Here’s to you, Mitch! May your next whistle sound the start of a much less chaotic game!
PHILADELPHIA — In a startling moment during the first period of the closely contested matchup at Wells Fargo Center, referee Mitch Dunning found himself being carted off the ice on a stretcher following a collision with Colorado Avalanche defenseman Josh Manson. This incident occurred as the Avalanche edged out the Philadelphia Flyers with a final score of 3-2 on Monday night.
Dunning was promptly taken to a local hospital for precautionary examinations. Fortunately, all neurological assessments have returned normal; he remains fully alert, capable of communication, and can move all limbs without issue.
“I didn’t even see it,” Flyers coach John Tortorella remarked after the game. “But from the report I received post-game, there were initial concerns about Dunning struggling with arm mobility and sensitivity. However, I’ve been informed that he appears to be alright now.”
The referee was stationed in the neutral zone when the unfortunate encounter occurred as Manson attempted to join the offensive action in the Philadelphia zone. Medical personnel attended to Dunning after the game was halted with 13:37 left on the clock.
Players from both teams expressed their concern, checking in on the official as he was wheeled off the ice through the Zamboni tunnel, displaying a commendable show of sportsmanship amidst the intensity of the game.
The game proceeded with only one referee and two linesmen officiating, which added an unexpected dynamic to the match.
“I hope he’s alright,” said Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar. “I haven’t had the chance to view the incident myself. When I returned to the bench, I noticed Manson looking shaken and then saw the ref down on the ice. It appeared to be an unfortunate collision; however, I still haven’t had the opportunity to see a replay. My thoughts are with him.”
Dunning, 32, is in the midst of his seventh season officiating in the NHL, having made his debut on March 28, 2019. Prior to his refereeing career, he played two seasons as a defenseman in the Ontario Hockey League, representing teams Sarnia (2008-09) and Windsor (2009-10).
– What did Cale Makar observe during the collision with referee Mitch Dunning?
**Interview with Cale Makar on Mitch Dunning’s Collision:**
**Host:** Welcome to our segment today where we discuss a surprising incident from last night’s game! Joining us is Colorado Avalanche defenseman, Cale Makar. Cale, thanks for being here!
**Cale Makar:** Thanks for having me!
**Host:** Let’s get right to it. The collision between referee Mitch Dunning and yourself was quite the shock for everyone in the arena. Can you walk us through what you saw?
**Cale Makar:** Yeah, it definitely caught me off guard. I was focused on the play, and then suddenly I saw Mitch go down after the hit. It all happened so fast. I didn’t even catch it until I got back to the bench and heard the commotion.
**Host:** How did it feel to see a referee go down like that? Were the players concerned?
**Cale Makar:** Absolutely, it’s always tough to see anyone get hurt on the ice—referees included. We’re all part of this game, and despite the competitiveness, there’s a level of respect and care for each other. I really hope he’s OK.
**Host:** After the collision, both teams seemed to show concern for him. What did that moment feel like for you on the ice?
**Cale Makar:** It was a kind of eerie quiet that settled down after it happened. I think everyone just wanted to make sure Mitch was alright. The rivalry is fierce during the game, but we all know the risks involved; safety comes first.
**Host:** After his stretch off the ice, the reports came in that Dunning was responsive and all signs were normal. How relieving was it for you and your teammates to hear that news?
**Cale Makar:** Very relieving! As soon as we saw he was responsive, a weight was lifted off everyone’s shoulders. It’s a good reminder that while hockey is a tough game, it’s important to focus on the well-being of everyone involved.
**Host:** As a referee with years of experience, Dunning has witnessed a lot on the ice. Has this incident changed your perspective on the role of the referees during games?
**Cale Makar:** Not really changed it, but it definitely highlights how vulnerable they can be. We often focus on plays and outcomes, but to remember how much they dedicate to the game while putting themselves at risk is important. They do a tough job.
**Host:** Well said, Cale. With Mitch Dunning having a solid career thus far, what are your hopes for his speedy recovery?
**Cale Makar:** I just hope he can get back on the ice soon. The game isn’t the same without dedicated referees like him. And when he does come back, hopefully, it’ll be an uneventful game for him!
**Host:** Thanks for your insights, Cale. Here’s hoping for a swift recovery for Mitch Dunning. Let’s keep the hockey drama on the ice, shall we?
**Cale Makar:** Absolutely! Thank you!
**Host:** Thanks for joining us today!