General Manager of the Lacombe Generals Jeff McInnis said it’s hard to accept the 16-game suspension handed down on Kyle Sheen for his hit on Stony Plain Eagles Owner and Captain Ryan Smyth in Game 1 of the Chinook Hockey League finals.

Smyth left the game and did not return until Game 6, where the Generals sent the Eagles packing with a 10-3 victory on Saturday.

“It’s a lot of games in our hockey (league) and nothing I’ve ever seen,” said McInnis.

“If they feel that this is what this was worth I guess we have a new standard to go by. We’re not about to defend the hit or defend those types of injuries, but it’s tough to accept that and you do so with some faith in the system.”

Sheen has been getting a lot of slack on social media about his character, but McInnis likes to remind people that the Generals weren’t the only team who wanted his services.

“He was a pretty coveted guy for a long time in this league and it’s hard to throw stones at him because he’s a pretty successful cat.”

“Obviously, he’s a favourite of ours, he’s a favorite of mine, but in the court of public opinion he’s a villain right now and it’s hard to see people slander him.”

McInnis added there isn’t anything they can do, but to move on.

“He’ll be fine, we’ll be fine, we’ll deal with it the best we can and try to make the best of it.”

When asked if he believes the suspension would have been as severe if the victim wasn’t Ryan Smyth, McInnis said the answer to that question was quite clear.

“I think we all know the honest answer to that. You can debate it otherwise I suppose, but I’m pretty confident in my feelings.”

Sheen has spent six years with the Generals and has been a big part of the team’s success.

Captain Don Morrison said they’re going to miss his leadership as they head to New Brunswick next month to compete in the Allan Cup.

“He’s a standup guy. He would absolutely do anything for anyone and is what you call a “good teammate”. He does whatever he can to help and is a real character guy. He never quits, he’s always battling and he’s a great guy to have on your team.”

Generals look to repeat as Allan Cup champions beginning on April 11.