USA Hockey mandates neck guards for all players under the age of 18 starting Aug. 1

USA Hockey on Sunday announced that it will mandate neck guards for all players under age 18 beginning Aug. 1.

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The move comes partially because of the death of hockey player Adam Johnson, who died in October after he was hit in the neck by a skate blade during an Elite Ice Hockey League game in England, according to The Associated Press.

Since Johnson’s death, the International Ice Hockey Federation mandated neck guards for all players at all levels, the AP reported.

“Safety is always at the forefront of our conversations and the action of our Congress today reflected that,” said Mike Trimboli, president of USA Hockey. “We appreciate the significant work done by our Safety and Protective Equipment Committee, led by Dr. Mike Stuart, and the many others who were instrumental in the overall evaluation process.”

“I know throughout our organization, the overwhelming opinion was that the time is appropriate to modify our rules related to neck laceration protection,” said Pat Kelleher, executive director of USA Hockey. “We’re also encouraged that the hockey industry is committed to continuing to work to improve the cut-resistant products that protect players to help influence the safest possible landscape for the game.”

USA Hockey recommends adult players wear neck laceration protection, as well, but it is not mandated.

The National Hockey League does not have a neck guard mandate for players, the AP reported.

Adam Johnson was a forward with the Pittsburgh Penguins organization for three seasons.

Since Johnson's death, the Penguins opted to mandate neck guards for their players with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the AHL and the Wheeling Nailers of the ECHL.

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