Passing of 29-Year-Old Player Set to Shift the Safety Paradigm in Ice Hockey, Adding a New Chapter in the Sport

Toughness is often measured in puck-sized bruises in players in the world of ice hockey. However, even after knowing that the game is exposed to such adversaries, the concept of neck protection has always been overlooked. However, with the recent turn of events, the game is flipping its script.

The sudden and tragic demise of Adam Johnson, the notable American hockey player has prompted the revaluation of safety measures in NHL. The shift in the attitudes within the hockey community exposes the drama revolving around the safety gear.

Personal commitment to approach ice hockey with precautions

The untimely demise of a 29-year-old Nottingham Panthers player had an emotional impact on TJ Oshie, who shared joint responsibilities of being an NHL player and the co-founder of a hockey apparel company. Oshie, therefore, made a personal commitment to prioritize his own safety. 

In an interview with News Channel Nebraska River Country, Oshie shared his reason for opting to wear the neck guard, “I thought about my kids. I’m getting towards the end of my career, and I just wanted to take that extra step to protect myself and protect their dad’s future.”

He now prioritizes his own safety by wearing an undershirt with a built-in protective guard that shields his neck. This sets him as a visible symbol of maintaining the balance between safety during the pursuit of victory and taking proactive steps to avoid potential dangers on the ice.

Ice hockey steps towards being a safe sport

The English Ice Hockey Association has taken up a revolutionary measure post-Johnson’s death making it mandatory for all players to wear neck guards. For their minor league players, Pittsburgh Panthers has introduced the step. 

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Ice hockey broadcaster Seth Benett shifts the focus on the prevailing mindset of the players who often refuse to compromise with their tough image. In one of his statements made to CNN Sport, Bennett sheds light on the prejudices attached to wearing safety gear, “I think there is a machismo within ice hockey where you’re seen as being something less if you choose to wear more protective equipment.”

In an attempt to speed up the adoption process of the safety gear, Gary Bettman, the NHL commissioner, expressed his willingness to move forward with a discussion concerning the introduction of neck guards through a phased-in basis or mandates. In the meantime, USA Hockey suggests covering as much neck area as possible since no protection can eliminate laceration risks.

Even though the future of safety in ice hockey remains ambiguous, the sport is trying to give its best in stabilizing between tradition and prioritization of the well-being of the players. By fostering a culture that embraces proactive measures, further mishaps on the ice while playing the sport can be avoided. 

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