KIJHL makes neck protection mandatory

The Kootenay International Junior Hockey League is joining other junior leagues in Canada to require all players to wear neck protection when taking part in any on-ice team activity including games and practices.

“While this policy takes effect immediately, the timeline to obtain a suitable quantity of neck protectors for the KIJHL’s approximately 500 players (20 teams) is not presently known,” a statement on the league’s website said.

The Western Hockey League announced a similar policy on Nov. 1.

The BC Hockey League has yet to announce any changes.

Leagues are adding the new level of protection after the tragic death of former NHL player Adam Johnson on Oct. 28 after an on-ice collision resulted in a cut to his neck from a skate during a pro hockey game in Britain.