Firebirds Forward Suspended 20 Games for PED Violation

David Goyette faces lengthy ban from AHL for banned substance use.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The American Hockey League (AHL) has suspended Coachella Valley Firebirds forward David Goyette for 20 games after he violated the league's performance-enhancing substance program. Goyette, who has 3 goals and 7 assists in 47 games this season, will be sidelined until the end of the regular season due to the infraction.

Why it matters

The suspension of a key player like Goyette is a significant blow to the Firebirds, who are fighting for a playoff spot in the AHL's Pacific Division. The use of banned substances also raises integrity concerns for the league and the sport of professional hockey.

The details

According to the AHL, Goyette tested positive for a prohibited performance-enhancing substance during a random drug test. As a result, he has been suspended for 20 games without pay, effective immediately. Goyette will be eligible to return to the Firebirds' lineup at the end of the regular season.

  • Goyette was suspended on February 17, 2026.
  • The 20-game suspension will keep Goyette out until the end of the regular season.

The players

David Goyette

A forward for the Coachella Valley Firebirds in the American Hockey League, who has been suspended 20 games for violating the league's performance-enhancing substance program.

Coachella Valley Firebirds

A professional ice hockey team based in Palm Springs, California that plays in the American Hockey League, the top minor league affiliate of the National Hockey League.

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What they’re saying

“We take the integrity of our league and the health and safety of our players very seriously. This suspension should serve as a clear message that we will not tolerate the use of banned substances.”

— Scott Howson, AHL President and CEO (AHL Press Release)

What’s next

The Firebirds will need to adjust their lineup and playing style to compensate for the loss of Goyette for the remainder of the regular season. The team is currently in the hunt for a playoff spot in the AHL's Pacific Division.

The takeaway

This suspension highlights the importance of maintaining a level playing field in professional sports and the consequences athletes face for violating anti-doping policies. It also underscores the Firebirds' need to find alternative ways to generate offense and remain competitive without one of their top scorers.