USA Hockey mandates neck guards for all players under 18 effective Aug. 1

USA Hockey is mandating neck laceration protection for all players under the age of 18, the latest development in the wake of the death of a player in England from a skate to the neck that has reignited the debate over cut-proof gear in the sport.

The new rule goes into effect Aug. 1, a timeline that accounts for supply chain and production delays with neck guards. The decision announced Sunday comes three months after American Adam Johnson died after taking a skate blade to the neck during a game in the Elite Ice Hockey League.

The International Ice Hockey Federation has since mandated neck guards for players at all levels at the tournaments it runs.

USA Hockey's decision comes after its congress approved the mandate, which also includes on-ice officials under 18 and any 19-year-old players at the boys, girls or junior level, at its annual meeting. The governing body for the sport in the U.S. also said it strongly recommends that adults wear neck protection.

"I know throughout our organization, the overwhelming opinion was that the time is appropriate to modify our rules related to neck laceration protection," USA Hockey executive director Pat Kelleher said. "We're also encouraged that the hockey industry is committed to continuing to work to improve the cut-resistant products that protect players to help influence the safest possible landscape for the game."

U.S. youth hockey also has been struck by on-ice tragedy in recent years. Connecticut high school player Teddy Balkind, 16, died two years ago from a skate cut to the neck during a game.

USA Hockey has long recommended cut-resistant socks, sleeves and undergarments, as well as neck protection. Its board of directors asked the safety and protection equipment