Why are neck protectors mandatory?
Whatever level you play ice hockey at, from January 1, Dutch players must wear a neck protector. At first it was mandatory for Dutch youth under the age of 18, but soon it will also be mandatory for adults.
It is the reason for the measure accident that happened last weekend at an ice hockey match in England. American player Adam Johnson suffered a skate in his neck and later died in hospital from his injuries. Both the English and Dutch associations subsequently decided to tighten their rules for neck protection.