Making Safety a Priority: English Ice Hockey Introduces Mandatory Neck Guards

Adam Johnson: Neck guards to be made mandatory in England after ice hockey player’s death

Last updated on 30 October 2023

Introduction

Floral tributes have been left outside Nottingham Panthers’ Motorpoint Arena following the death of Adam Johnson, an ice hockey player who suffered a serious cut to his neck from a skate during a Challenge Cup match against the Sheffield Steelers. In response to this tragic incident, the English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA) has announced that it will be mandatory for players to wear a neck guard during all on-ice activities from 2024 onwards. The EIHA’s “strong recommendation” is that all players wear neck guards with immediate effect. This decision has raised questions about the safety of ice hockey and the importance of implementing measures to prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.

The Need for Safety Measures

The incident involving Adam Johnson highlights the inherent risks associated with the sport of ice hockey. The game involves fast-paced action, physical contact, and sharp skates, making it essential to prioritize player safety. The EIHA’s announcement is a response to this tragedy and aims to prevent similar incidents from happening again.

The EIHA’s Responsibility

The EIHA recognizes its responsibility to protect the players and the integrity of the sport. In their statement, they express their commitment to addressing safety issues and taking a proactive role in evaluating player safety equipment at the international level.

The Role of Neck Guards

Neck guards are designed to provide additional protection to players by preventing direct contact between the neck and sharp skate blades. They have already been made mandatory in Scottish Ice Hockey and Ice Hockey UK, which runs the Great Britain national team. The decision to extend the use of neck guards in England reflects a growing recognition of their importance in preventing severe injuries.

Addressing the Stigma

The announcement by the EIHA also brings attention to the stigma surrounding the use of neck guards in ice hockey. Abbie Culshaw, a Great Britain international, emphasizes the need for a change in attitudes towards neck protection. She explains how wearing neck guards is often seen as an annoyance or a sign of being less experienced or skilled. This stigma can discourage players from wearing the necessary protective equipment. Addressing and changing this attitude is essential to ensure the safety of all players and make wearing neck guards the norm rather than an exception.

Global Implementation

While neck guards are already mandatory in countries like Finland and Sweden, their use is not widespread across all ice hockey leagues. Germany’s top flight, the Deutsche Eishockey Liga, is reportedly considering their introduction for the upcoming season. USA Hockey has previously recommended their use due to concerns about neck lacerations. It is crucial for the international Ice Hockey Federation and other governing bodies to follow the lead of countries and leagues that have already made neck guards mandatory to ensure consistent safety standards worldwide.

Conclusion and Editorial

The tragic death of Adam Johnson has brought the importance of player safety in ice hockey to the forefront. The mandatory use of neck guards is a significant step forward in addressing this issue, but it is essential that it is accompanied by comprehensive evaluations of all player safety equipment. The sport must prioritize the well-being of its players above all else.

Advice to Players and Clubs

To players, it is crucial to prioritize your own safety and utilize all available protective equipment, including neck guards. Do not succumb to peer pressure or stigma surrounding their use. To clubs, it is vital to support and promote the use of neck guards among players at all levels. By implementing and enforcing these measures, the sport can work towards a safer future for all participants.

Preventing Future Tragedies

The death of Adam Johnson serves as a reminder that safety should always be the top priority in any sport. While accidents can still occur, it is the duty of governing bodies, clubs, and players to take proactive steps to prevent avoidable incidents. With the mandatory use of neck guards, the ice hockey community in England is driving towards a safer and more secure environment for its athletes.

References:

• BBC Sport – Adam Johnson: Neck guards to be made mandatory in England after ice hockey player’s death