Springfield, MA -- (Sports Network) - Philadelphia Flyers forward Jesse Boulerice on Monday was ruled ineligible to play in the American Hockey League until December 16.

Boulerice received a 25-game suspension without pay on October 12, for cross-checking Vancouver's Ryan Kesler across the face during a game on October 10. He was then placed on waivers by the Flyers last Monday, and after clearing them Tuesday, was assigned to the Phantoms, Philly's AHL affiliate.

However, according to AHL by-laws, any player suspended by any league who wishes to continue to play in the AHL must have the matter reviewed by the league president.

"We strongly support the National Hockey League's recent decisions relative to targeting the head of an opponent," said AHL president David Andrews. "In determining his eligibility date, it was taken into account that this is the second time in his career that Mr. Boulerice has been assigned to the AHL while under a lengthy suspension in another league."

On April 17, 1998, while a member of the Plymouth Whalers of the Ontario Hockey League, Boulerice was assessed a match penalty for using his stick to strike the face of Andrew Long of the Guelph Storm. Consequently, Boulerice was suspended for the entire 1998-1999 OHL season and charged with assault.

He is the second Flyer this season to be disciplined by the league for a violent on-ice act. Last month, forward Steve Downie was suspended 20 games for leaving his feet to deliver a dangerous check on Ottawa's Dean McAmmond, who had to be removed on a stretcher.

Downie, who also cleared waivers and was assigned to the Phantoms, was ruled ineligible to play for the Phantoms until November 3.

Boulerice will continue to serve his NHL suspension, however, as he will be called up to the Flyers' roster on off-days.