A Safer Future: The Rangers’ Perspective on Mandatory Neckguards in Hockey

Discover how Rangers players are taking steps to enhance safety on the ice with cut-resistant sleeves. Learn how these measures contribute to a safer game for all.

The demand for neckguards in hockey has increased after a sad event with Adam Johnson. He was hurt badly when a skate cut his neck during a game in the UK, and he tragically passed away. It’s a situation everyone, including the New York Rangers, is monitoring closely. Several hockey leagues in Canada are considering making it a rule that players must wear neck guards to stay safe on the ice.

The Canadian Junior Hockey League, including the Maritime Hockey League, said that all their teams’ players have to wear neck protection. They all agreed to this to keep the players safe. This rule is in effect right now, but teams have some time to get the gear.

Some places in Canada already had rules about neck guards, but not everyone. In November, meetings will transpire to see if this should be a rule for all of Canada.

Player Safety First: Rangers Embrace Cut-Resistant Sleeves for Added Protection:

Currently, players in senior leagues and junior B and C leagues don’t have to wear neck guards, but they might talk about changing that soon. The Rangers are monitoring this because they want players to be safe. Several Rangers players are taking proactive steps to protect themselves by wearing cut-resistant sleeves on exposed areas of their bodies that aren’t covered by their regular gear. These sleeves have a sock-like texture and provide a compression fit, ensuring players have an extra layer of protection in areas like the wrists and ankles.

Youth players are used to wearing neckguards, but making them a must will help everyone play safely.

The idea of making neckguards a rule is getting more popular in Canada and even in the United States. Some NHL players, like Tom Wilson and TJ Oshie from the Washington Capitals, wear neck guards to protect themselves.

The NHL doesn’t make players wear neck guards, but they recommend it. Changing the safety gear needs an agreement between the league and the players, according to their rules. The sad accident with Johnson is making people think more about player safety, and they’re talking about making neckguards mandatory.

It’s an excellent step to keep hockey players safe, and the Rangers are part of this vital talk to make the game safer for everyone.