USA Hockey approved legislation mandating the use of neck protection for all players under 18 starting Aug. 1, the sporting body announced on Sunday.
According to their press release, players in all age classifications under 18 will be required to wear neck protection in games and practices. They’re also requiring on-ice officials under the age of 18 to wear the guards.
“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, in the release. “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.”
USA Hockey began the process of mandating neck protection in November of 2023, asking the Safety and Protective Equipment Committee to begin the process of recommending potential rule changes.
They have also recommended the use of cut-resistant socks, sleeves and undergarments.
“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.”
The legislation passed by USA Hockey also strongly recommends that adult players also use neck protection.
Discourse about requiring the use of neck protection became a major talking point following the tragic death of Adam Johnson in the Elite Ice Hockey League after the American was struck in the neck by a skate blade.
The IIHF has already mandated that all players in all age groups and levels are required to wear neck protection.