UK's Elite Ice Hockey League Rejects Mandatory Neck Guards Despite Death of Player Adam Johnson

Elite Ice Hockey League emphasizes player safety and strongly encourages neck guard use but stops short of mandatory rule, even as player's tragic skate-blade cut death sparks safety debates and further investigations.

The UK's Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) has decided not to make neck guards compulsory despite safety debates following the tragic death of player Adam Johnson, who was fatally cut in the neck by a skate blade.
While the English Ice Hockey Association (EIHA) has declared neck guards will be mandatory from 2024, this rule does not apply to EIHL, which operates independently.
The EIHL has stated they prioritize player safety and welfare, and 'strongly encourage' the usage of neck guards, following guidelines from the International Ice Hockey Federation that recommends their use.
Johnson's death, referred to as a 'freak accident', has ignited an ongoing investigation by the South Yorkshire Police which is expected to take time due to the unprecedented nature of the incident.
Adam Johnson's teammate, Victor Bjorkung, described witnessing the incident as 'the most traumatizing thing' he had ever seen; they have expressed full support for Matt Petgrave, whose blade unintentionally caused Johnson's fatal injury.
Family members of Adam Johnson have described the incident as 'reckless' and are seeking 'justice for Adam', igniting further debate on player safety in the sport.