A recent incident at Alberta Springs Golf Resort near Red Deer, Alberta, has brought former NHL player Nick Tarnasky into the spotlight, not for his slap shot, but for a physical confrontation on the greens.
Video footage circulating online depicts Tarnasky engaged in a heated argument with another individual. Reports suggest the dispute was reportedly triggered by comments regarding the pace of play – a common frustration elevated significantly in this instance.
The situation escalated rapidly. After the other individual advanced, Tarnasky is seen physically engaging, ultimately lifting and throwing the man into a nearby pond. The confrontation continued when the man returned, leading to Tarnasky delivering several punches, accompanied by audible shouts of “bang” with each strike. He then physically removed the individual from the immediate area again.
Tarnasky, aged 40, had a notable career in the National Hockey League between 2005 and 2010, playing for teams including the Tampa Bay Lightning, Nashville Predators, and Florida Panthers. Known for his physical play, his record includes nearly 300 penalty minutes over 245 games – a statistic perhaps offering context, if not justification, for the incident`s nature.
He has since transitioned into coaching and was recently announced to return as head coach for the Red Deer Minor Hockey U17 AAA North Stars for the upcoming 2025-26 season.
Red Deer Minor Hockey addressed the incident publicly, stating they are aware of the video and are conducting an internal investigation. Their statement indicated no further comment while this process is underway and while they understood policing authorities were reviewing the matter.
Contrary to the hockey organization`s understanding, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have stated they are *not* investigating the incident. A police spokesperson confirmed receiving a third-party report about a fight and an intoxicated person but noted that the complainant had left the scene before officers arrived and no one subsequently came forward to file an assault allegation. Consequently, the RCMP`s involvement concluded without charges.
The incident highlights the unexpected potential for conflict even in recreational settings and raises questions about the conduct expected of figures in youth sports, regardless of official legal outcomes. The internal investigation by Red Deer Minor Hockey proceeds, while the specifics of the confrontation remain largely captured in the widely viewed video.