The Call for Increased Safety Equipment in Hockey: Reflecting on the Tragic Death of Adam Johnson
In the wake of a tragic on-ice incident that resulted in the death of Adam Johnson, the hockey world has been forced to confront its attitudes towards safety equipment. Johnson, a player for the Nottingham Panthers, suffered a fatal neck wound after being cut by another player's skate blade, leading to the suspension of the game against the Sheffield Steelers. This "freak accident" has sparked a significant conversation within the community, particularly around the use of protective neck guards.
### The Response Within the Hockey Community
TJ Oshie, a well-known figure in hockey, has been vocal about the impact of Johnson's death on his own approach to safety on the ice. Oshie, who has admittedly often neglected his own safety for the sake of the game, watched footage of Johnson's final moments and has kept Johnson and his family in his thoughts since. In a show of solidarity and concern for his own well-being, Oshie opted to wear a protective guard around his neck in the game following Johnson's death. His actions, motivated by thoughts of his children's safety, have led some of his teammates to follow suit.
This personal response by Oshie and others in the hockey world reflects a broader discussion on the necessity of neck guards. The tragic incident has already led to policy changes, such as the English Ice Hockey Association mandating neck guards for all players starting next year, and the Pittsburgh Penguins requiring their minor league players to wear them. Despite these steps, neck guards remain uncommon in the NHL, with a stigma around wearing additional protective gear still prevalent.
### Shifting Attitudes and the Call for Change
There is a growing call among players, coaches, and officials for a greater emphasis on safety in hockey. The International Ice Hockey Federation already mandates neck guards for junior players, though not for seniors, while USA Hockey recommends their use. The recent incident has prompted NHL commissioner Gary Bettman to state that the league will discuss the introduction of neck guards. Oshie's own company, Warroad, has seen a surge in demand for their neck and wrist guards, indicating a potential shift in player attitudes towards protective equipment.
However, changing these attitudes won't be easy. According to Dr. Mike Stuart, chief medical officer for USA Hockey, there's a need for better quality neck guards that players will be willing to wear. The implementation of protective gear in the NHL has historically faced player reluctance, but Stuart remains optimistic about changing player attitudes towards safety.
Oshie himself notes this shift, particularly among younger players, who seem more willing to adopt safety measures. “Sometimes, you feel like you’re invincible on the ice,” Oshie reflects, acknowledging his own past neglect of safety for the sake of the game. Yet, he admits, "I thought about my kids," a sentiment that highlights the personal stakes involved in this issue.
### The Future of Safety in Hockey
As discussions continue and policies start to change, the hockey community is at a crossroads. The tragic death of Adam Johnson has served as a catalyst for reevaluating the role of protective gear in the sport. While some resist these changes, viewing them as unnecessary or a sign of weakness, others see them as essential to preventing future tragedies.
The recent increase in demand for protective equipment, along with comments from influential players like Oshie and initiatives from organizations such as the English Ice Hockey Association and the Pittsburgh Penguins, indicate that the tide may be turning. However, overcoming the entrenched stigma against additional protective gear will require a concerted effort from all levels of the sport, from young players to seasoned NHL veterans.
As Oshie poignantly puts it, the machismo within ice hockey has long seen players viewed as "something less" for choosing to wear more protective equipment. Yet, with conversations around safety gaining momentum and the personal impact of Johnson's death hitting close to home for many, the hockey community may finally be ready to embrace the protective measures that could save lives.
In the end, the legacy of Adam Johnson and the tragedy of his death may well be a turning point in how the sport of hockey approaches player safety. With increased awareness and a growing willingness among players to adopt protective gear, the hope is that such incidents will become rare, ensuring that future generations of players can enjoy the game with a greater sense of security and safety.
