Sports
The death of American hockey player Adam Johnson in 2023 from a skate-cut throat has prompted leagues around the world to discuss ways to prevent such injuries.
TJ Oshie of the Washington Capitals wears a neck guard as he skates before playing against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Nov. 4, 2023. Patrick Smith/Getty Images
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) – The American Hockey League announced Friday that cut-resistant neck protection is mandatory for all players and on-ice officials on all 32 teams starting this season.
AHL president and CEO Scott Howson said the league’s board had unanimously approved the move, which applies to all skaters and officials, regardless of age and experience. The league a year ago mandated the use of cut-resistant socks and wrist sleeves.
The death of the American hockey player in 2023 Adam Johnson from a skate cut to the neck during a game in England has prompted leagues around the world to discuss ways to prevent such injuries, including a new mandate for young players in the United States. Johnson, a former NHL player with Pittsburgh, was 29.
Hockey Canada has mandated neck protection for youth players for three decades. Death of Connecticut high school player Teddy Balkind from a skate cut to the neck in 2022 brought the conversation back to the fore.
The International Ice Hockey Federation announced in December that it will mandate neck guards at all levels of tournaments it runs. The NHL currently does not have a mandate, and it would be subject to negotiations between the league and the players’ union.
In operation since 1936, the AHL is the highest developmental league for all 32 NHL teams.
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