August 1, 2024, for players in all age classifications, except adults, in games and practices – as well as for on-ice officials under the age of 18. USA Hockey requires the use of neck laceration protection (neck guard). There is still risk of injury when wearing a neck laceration protector, as with other protective equipment. No one piece of equipment can 100% prevent an injury from happening, but we can reduce the risk of injury by wearing proper fitting equipment without altering it in any way.
What is the penalty for not wearing a neck laceration protector?
Rule enforcement will be the same as any other equipment violation: an initial team warning followed by a 10-minute misconduct penalty for any violations after the initial warning.
Can I make my own neck guard?
Players are required to wear a neck laceration protector that is commercially designed and manufactured for that purpose.
Where can I purchase a Neck Guard?
Neck laceration protection (neck guard) can be purchased locally from Johns Sports Shop, Play it Again Sports, and Pure Hockey.
Further information can be found here
