Coroner Tanyka Rawden has recommended that neck guards become mandatory in ice hockey after Nottingham Panthers player Adam Johnson suffered a fatal injury from a skate during a match against the Sheffield Steelers on October 28. In a prevention of future deaths report, Rawden expressed concern that without compulsory neck guards, future fatalities might occur.

The report states, “In my opinion, there is a risk that future deaths will occur unless action is taken. In the circumstances, it is my statutory duty to report to you.”

Despite this recommendation, the Elite Ice Hockey League announced last week that it would not enforce mandatory neck protection but would “strongly encourage” players and officials to wear them. Following the release of Rawden’s report, the league expressed acknowledgment and stated that it would collaborate with Ice Hockey UK, the English Ice Hockey Association, the International Ice Hockey Federation, teams, players, and officials to assess the impact of the recommendations.

The English Ice Hockey Association, however, has decided to make it mandatory for players to wear neck guards during “all on-ice activities” starting from 2024, marking a significant change in regulations. The association’s decision reflects a proactive approach to player safety in response to the tragic incident involving Adam Johnson.