In the wake of a tragic incident in England, USA Hockey has decided to mandate neck laceration protection for all players under the age of 18, effective from August 1. This follows the death of player Adam Johnson, who was fatally injured by a skate blade to the neck during a game in the Elite Ice Hockey League. The International Ice Hockey Federation has also implemented a similar mandate at all levels of play in their tournaments. While the new rule is targeted towards younger players, USA Hockey strongly recommends that adults also wear neck protection. The decision was made after the approval of USA Hockey’s congress and aims to improve player safety in the sport.
The requirement for neck guards comes after a series of on-ice tragedies involving young players. Two years ago, Teddy Balkind, a 16-year-old high school player from Connecticut, passed away from a skate cut to the neck during a game.
USA Hockey has long advocated for cut-resistant gear, including socks, sleeves, undergarments, and neck protection. The safety and protection equipment committee, led by Dr. Mike Stuart, has been actively working on developing effective and comfortable cut-resistant undergarments for vulnerable areas of the body, such as the neck, upper arm, wrist, thigh, and ankle/Achilles tendon regions. The goal is to create gear that not only protects but also allows for a full range of motion and is affordable.
While USA Hockey is taking this proactive step, the NHL currently does not have any mandates for players regarding cut-resistant gear. However, discussions between the league and the players’ union are ongoing.
Instances where players have sustained severe injuries from skate blades serve as a reminder of the potential dangers on the ice. In 2013, defenseman Erik Karlsson had his left Achilles tendon severed by a skate blade, requiring surgery and prematurely ending his season. Evander Kane, a winger, also missed two months of play due to a cut on his left wrist from a skate blade.
USA Hockey’s decision to mandate neck guards for players under 18 demonstrates their commitment to improving player safety. By acknowledging the importance of protective gear and implementing regulations, they hope to create a safer environment for players at all levels of the game.
