Two game suspension for Ticats LB Simoni Lawrence upheld; league pleased with the decision

Photo courtesy: Scott Grant/CFLPhotoArchive.com

The arbitrator has ruled and Ticats linebacker Simoni Lawrence suspension will remain two games.

The league issued a statement on the ruling:

We are pleased that the Arbitrator has decided to uphold the two-game suspension for Hamilton Tiger-Cat Simoni Lawrence for his conduct during play #4 of CFL game #10 on June 13. Dangerous and reckless play must be disciplined, not simply for the sake of punishment, but to deter such play in the future. We all need to take and support strong action to promote and protect player health and safety. We look forward to continuing to work with our players on this mission. Mr. Lawrence is now required to serve his two-game suspension, starting with his team’s next game, scheduled for Friday, July 26.

Lawrence had his appeal hearing Tuesday, July 9, which lasted nearly 12 hours according to Hamilton’s outspoken defender. He was given a two-game ban for a head shot put on Riders quarterback Zach Collaros in Week 1.

.@sskroughriders QB Zach Collaros leaves the game after a "roughing the passer" head shot from Simoni Lawrence. #CFLGameDay pic.twitter.com/j4VXfP8Siv

— CFL on TSN (@CFLonTSN) June 13, 2019

Saskatchewan placed Collaros on the six-game injured list following the incident. Randy Ambrosie was deeply disappointed Lawrence appealed the decision and the CFLPA responded to the misleading statement from the commissioner.

More than a month after the incident, there is a final ruling. Lawrence will miss Hamilton’s next two games which come against the Bombers and Riders.