HOUGHTON, Mich. (WZMQ) – Safety is at the top of the mind for youth hockey players and parents following a tragedy that left a professional player dead last week.
Adam Johnson, a player in the elite hockey league, was killed after being slashed in the neck by another player’s skate. The incident has brought player safety to the forefront and reignited the debate for mandatory neck guards.
The MHSAA has required neck guards for players since 2000, and many independent league’s enforce the same rule.
“I really believe its a safety tool that can save lives, the more its mandated when you use it as a youngster, you are gonna be apt to use it as you get older,” remarked Corey Markham, the former coach of the Houghton High School hockey team.
Neck guards like this one can be purchased at any hockey store and most sporting goods retailers.
