IMAGE: Utilita Arena Sheffield during the Steelers vs Panthers game
The English Ice Hockey Association has announced the mandatory wearing of neck guards during Ice Hockey games.
The announcement follows the tragic death of Nottingham Panthers’ player, Adam Johnson, in a game at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield.
Adam Johnson passed away after a clash on the ice resulted in a deep cut to his neck.
EIHA said on their website: “As in all sports, the safety of our players must take precedence above all else. We are firmly committed to our obligation to exhaust every possible means to ensure that a tragic incident of this nature never befalls our sport again.”
The association makes a ‘strong recommendation’ for the immediate wearing of neck guards which will become compulsory from 31 December, 2023.
The online statement continued: “It is unacceptable for any player to lose their life while playing sport. Our responsibility is not only to avert the recurrence of such a heart-breaking accident, but also to pre-emptively address other foreseeable incidents in the future.”
There is an ongoing South Yorkshire Police investigation into the incident, as is standard procedure for sudden and unexpected deaths.
A South Yorkshire Police statement read: “We continue to encourage the public to avoid speculation, including on social media, while we continue our enquiries and will provide updates when appropriate. Our thoughts remain with the loved ones of all those affected.”
Around 8000 fans attended the Challenge Cup fixture and Sheffield Steelers have advised witnesses to seek further help if they need.