LATEST | Support growing for a mandatory change of equipment following Adam Johnson's tragic passing

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Cooper Godin
October 30, 2023 (9:06)

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The passing of EIHL player and former NHLer Adam Johnson was tragic, and now more and more teams and even leagues are beginning to wear neckguards.

Neck guards are already mandated in Swedish and Finnish leagues. Still, on Sunday night, several players on the Providence Bruins wear them in-game, including former first-round pick Fabian Lysell.

"A number of @AHLBruins played wearing neck guards on Sunday.

This comes after former NHL player Adam Johnson died following a freak accident in an EIHL game"

Then, on Monday morning, the Oxford City Stars, a team in the NIHL 1 South, a lower league in England, announced that they've mandated neck guards for their entire roster.

"In the wake of the tragic incident involving Adam Johnson, who sadly lost his life in a freak in-game accident, Oxford City Stars is advancing its commitment to enhance player safety. The club proudly introduces mandatory neck guards for all players and coaching staff. The club has ordered and is now awaiting delivery of neckguards for all players and coaches. Once received, these guards will be utilized during all on-ice activities.

With the safety and well-being of our athletes at the forefront of this initiative, Oxford City Stars is taking the responsibility of providing specially designed neckguards for every member of the team. These guards will be a non-negotiable component of their attire during all practices and games, providing an extra layer of protection." The Stars said in a statement.

As the title suggests, there is growing support around the community for the mandate of neck guards worn by professional athletes. Still, it's unclear if Gary Bettman and the National Hockey League will go as far as making it a requirement.

The safety of players needs to become a priority, not just for minor leagues but for the National Hockey League as well; nowadays, neck guards aren't as invasive and won't be bothersome for a player to wear. The NHL and other professional leagues need to make these neckguards mandatory for players.