Rick Jodzio
Richard Joseph Jodzio is a Canadian former professional ice hockey left winger. He played in the National Hockey League with the Colorado Rockies and the Cleveland Barons; he also played in the World Hockey Association with the Vancouver Blazers and the Calgary Cowboys.
In his NHL career, Jodzio appeared in 70 games. He scored two goals and added eight assists while collecting 71 minutes in penalties. He played in 137 WHA games, scoring 15 goals and adding 16 assists with 357 minutes in penalties.
In April 11, 1976, one of the most infamous moments of organized hockey, Jodzio, while playing for the Calgary Cowboys of the WHA, attacked Quebec Nordiques star Marc Tardif with his hockey stick during a game in Quebec City. Jodzio's hit caused Tardif permanent brain damage. Jodzio hit Tardif repeatedly as Tardif lay helpless on the ice. Jodzio was ultimately suspended for the rest of the playoffs and charged with assault by Quebec police. After pleading guilty, Jodzio was fined $3000.
Jodzio was also a trained boxer. Since the incident Jodzio and Tardif have met for press interviews.
Jodzio is currently the owner of Frontline Freight, a less than truckload carrier based out of City of Industry, California.
