Hockey leagues around the world have been prompted to reevaluate their safety protocols in the wake of a devastating incident that claimed the life of Adam Johnson.
The Western Hockey League (WHL) has now joined the ranks of those implementing crucial changes to ensure player safety.
On Wednesday, the WHL declared that effective Friday, November 3rd, neck guards will be mandatory for all players, including the Victoria Royals.
The WHL announced today the adoption of mandatory neck guard protection for all players, effective Friday, November 3.
📰 | https://t.co/yaCSESSgIG pic.twitter.com/WVcA4J6Olr
— The WHL (@TheWHL) November 1, 2023
The tragic incident that shook the hockey community occurred during an Elite Ice Hockey League game in England, featuring Johnson’s Nottingham Panthers and the Sheffield Steelers.
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Johnson’s life was cut short after a horrifying on-ice collision during the third period. Johnson’s neck was accidentally slashed by the skate of an opposing player.
As Johnson attempted to skate to the bench, he collapsed due to the severe blood loss. It was a moment of sheer panic for players, coaches, and fans alike. Players from both teams formed a protective ring around Johnson while on-ice medical professionals rushed to save his life.
The game was halted, and fans were immediately evacuated.
Johnson was rushed to hospital, but despite the best efforts of medical professionals, the young athlete’s life could not be saved. He was pronounced dead at Sheffield’s Northern General Hospital, at just 29 years old.
“The Nottingham Panthers are truly devastated to announce that Adam Johnson has tragically passed away following a freak accident at the game in Sheffield last night,” Nottingham Panthers said in a statement on Facebook.
“Adam, our number 47, was not only an outstanding ice hockey player, but also a great teammate and an incredible person with his whole life ahead of him. The Club will dearly miss him and will never ever forget him.”
All WHL players will be required to wear protective neck guard equipment at all times while participating in on-ice activities, including WHL games and practices.
While the league acknowledges that there may be supply issues initially, they urge teams to adopt this crucial mandate as soon as the necessary equipment becomes available.
“We are supportive of the WHL implementing mandatory neck guard protection and our players will be wearing neck guards as soon as they arrive,” said Jake Heisinger, Associate General Manager.
Earlier this week, owners of the Saanich Predators announced neck guard protections would become mandatory for all their players following the incident.
“In light of the tragic loss of Adam Johnson, 29 this weekend as a result of a freak on ice accident while playing for the Nottingham Panthers as a part of the UK Elite League’s Challenge Cup, we feel this is the respectful and responsible thing to do, not only for our players but for all hockey families who are saddened by this terrible loss,” says Norm Kelly, co-owner of the Predators.
