Canadian hockey player who recently played in England given 18-month ban for doping

LONDON – A Canadian ice hockey player who recently played in Britain’s top league has been suspended 18 months for doping.

UK Anti-Doping says Kyle Bochek, a forward signed by Coventry Blaze for the 2014-15 season, tested positive for the stimulant methylhexaneamine in an in-competition sample on Nov. 30.

UKAD says Tuesday that Bochek admitted to the doping violation and said the banned substance came from a dietary supplement. Bochek provided evidence that it was not intended to enhance performance.

Bochek’s ban was reduced from two years. He is suspended until June 17, 2016.

Bochek was released by the Blaze in December after playing in 28 games.

He has also played for the Tulsa Oilers, Missouri Mavericks, Dayton Gems and Bloomington Blaze in North America’s Central Hockey League.