The English Ice Hockey Association has responded to the tragic death of Nottingham Panthers player Adam Johnson by making it mandatory "that all players at all levels across English Ice Hockey use an approved Ice Hockey Neck Guard/Protector whilst participating in all on ice activities."
The rule will effective starting Jan. 1, 2024, largely due to anticipated supply issues, the EIHA says. Until then, it has imposed a "strong recommendation” that its players begin using a neck guard.