Recently, the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) announced that neck guards will be required for all players in international tournaments. This decision was made in response to the tragic death of a player who was cut by a skate blade during a game.
The player, Czech Republic forward Libor Sulak, was struck in the neck by an opposing player’s skate blade during a game in May 2019. He was rushed to the hospital but died from his injuries. His death was a tragedy that shocked the hockey world and prompted the IIHF to take action.
The IIHF has decided that all players in international tournaments must wear neck guards beginning in the 2020-21 season. Neck guards are protective devices that cover the neck and throat area and are designed to protect players from skate blades and other impacts. They are made of lightweight and breathable materials and can be worn under a player’s jersey.
The IIHF has also mandated that all players wear full face shields, which provide additional protection from impacts and flying pucks. The face shields are designed to be comfortable and provide a wide field of vision.
The IIHF’s decision to require neck guards is an important step towards making hockey safer for all players. Neck guards can help protect players from serious injuries and even death. It is important that all players take safety seriously and wear the proper protective equipment when playing hockey.
The IIHF’s decision to require neck guards is a positive step towards making hockey safer for all players. It is important that all players take safety seriously and wear the proper protective equipment when playing hockey. By doing so, we can help ensure that tragedies like Libor Sulak’s death never happen again.
