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Injured Driller files lawsuit against Zack Pocklington |
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Written by Jac MacDonald
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Saturday, 27 February 1999 |
Edmonton Drillers soccer player Todd Rattee is suing Zack Pocklington and a number of companies for more than $305,000.
Rattee, a star defender with the Drillers, claims he suffered damages when injured playing in the final game of the regular season last March.
According to a statement of claim filed with Edmonton Court of Queen's Bench, Rattee said he suffered severe injuries to his left leg, including a broken fibula, dislocated ankle and torn ligaments.
After the injury, he said he made attempts to get compensation from Pocklington and the other defendants, including the Drillers Soccer Club, Edmonton Drillers Soccer Inc., P.F.C. Soccer Inc. and ABC Corporation Ltd.
Rattee claims the defendants breached the player agreement by failing to obtain or pay for insurance benefits.
In his statement of claim, Rattee said Pocklington told him benefits and insurance would be available in the event of injury.
Rattee said in court documents that at all material times, Pocklington was the owner, president and general manager of the Drillers and that he "recklessly and carelessly" represented that the soccer club obtained insurance for the players.
He is claiming money for pain, suffering, loss of income and loss of future earning capacity, as well as special and punitive damages.
Pocklington, son of former Edmonton Oilers and Drillers owner Peter Pocklington, has yet to file a statement of defence in the matter.
Zack Pocklington said Friday Rattee's claim has no merit and he will fight the lawsuit. He also said he was only a former employee of the soccer club.
"I really do think it has no merit. It will probably be settled rather quickly," Pocklington said.
The club was bought by Edmonton businessman Wojtek Wojcicki after the end of last year's season.
Rattee returned to action with the Drillers this season.
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