Policy - Neck Guards
On January 28, 2024, the USA Hockey Congress approved legislation requiring the use of neck laceration protection for players in all age classifications, other than adults, in games and practices, as well as for on-ice officials under the age of 18, effective August 1, 2024. For clarity, the requirement includes players in the youth, girls and junior age classifications.
As AYHA is a member of the Mid Am district of USA Hockey, the Association is required to enforce USA Hockey's rule changes, and our organization mandates the use of neck guards for all players during all association on-ice activities. This requirement extends to all age groups within our organization.
Requirements
- Participants Required to Wear Neck Guards. All players, referees under the age of 18, and any player under the age of 18 coaching or assisting with learn-to-play programs.
- Equipment Specifications. Neck guards must be specifically commercially designed for hockey, correctly fit the individual, and be free from damage or modification. They can be standalone or integrated into other pieces of equipment but must comply with USA Hockey equipment guidelines.
- Enforcement. Coaches will inspect for neck guards at all practices and games, and those players who are not wearing one will not be permitted on the ice. On-ice officials are also tasked with ensuring compliance and will check for neck guards during games. Players found without proper neck protection, or with inadequate equipment, will be instructed to return to the bench to address the issue before continuing participation. If a player is identified during a game as not wearing a neck guard, the team will be assessed an equipment violation, which included an initial team warning followed by a 10-minute misconduct penalty for any additional infractions after the initial warning.
- Applicability. This policy applies to all association-organized on-ice hockey events, including but not limited to home games, away games, and tournaments. Visiting teams are also required to adhere to this policy when participating in events hosted at our association's facilities.
Rationale & Compliance
The implementation of this policy aims to reduce the risk of neck injuries among participants, foster a safe playing environment for everyone involved, and achieve compliance with USA Hockey rules. Failure to comply with this policy will result in the participant being unable to partake in the activity until the issue is rectified. This policy is in effect immediately and will be strictly enforced to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
Updated July 14, 2024.